Nephrology Treatment

Nephrology treatment at the hospital, as described, covers a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Here’s a detailed overview of what patients can expect from nephrology services at the hospital:

Nephrology Treatment

1. Diagnosis and Evaluation: Nephrologists specialize in diagnosing kidney diseases through thorough evaluation, which may include:
   • Medical history review
   • Physical examination
   • Laboratory tests: Blood tests (creatinine, BUN, electrolytes), urine tests (urinalysis, urine protein/creatinine ratio), and imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan) to assess kidney function and identify abnormalities.
   • Kidney biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of kidney tissue may be obtained for examination under a microscope to aid in diagnosis.
2. Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Nephrologists provide comprehensive care for patients with CKD, which may involve:
   • Medication management: Prescribing medications to manage blood pressure, control blood sugar (in diabetic patients), treat complications of CKD (anemia, bone disease), and slow the progression of kidney disease.
   • Dietary and lifestyle modifications: Providing guidance on diet (restricting sodium, phosphorus, and potassium intake), fluid intake management, and exercise to help manage CKD and reduce associated complications.
   • Monitoring and follow-up: Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood and urine tests, as well as ongoing assessment and adjustment of treatment plans based on disease progression and patient response.
3. Management of Kidney Stones: Nephrologists diagnose and treat kidney stones, which are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form within the kidneys. Treatment options may include:
   • Pain management: Medications to relieve pain and discomfort associated with kidney stones.
   • Medical therapy: Prescribing medications to help dissolve or prevent the formation of kidney stones (e.g., thiazide diuretics, potassium citrate).
   • Stone removal procedures: In cases where kidney stones are large or causing complications, procedures such as lithotripsy (shock wave therapy), ureteroscopy, or surgical removal may be necessary.
4. Management of Electrolyte Imbalances: Nephrologists address electrolyte imbalances, which occur when levels of essential minerals (such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus) in the body are either too high or too low. Treatment may involve:
   • Electrolyte replacement therapy: Administering intravenous fluids or electrolyte supplements to restore normal levels.
   • Medication adjustments: Modifying medication regimens to help correct electrolyte imbalances.
   • Dietary modifications: Recommending changes to the diet to regulate intake of electrolytes and promote balance.
5. Management of Other Kidney Disorders: Nephrologists at the hospital also diagnose and manage various other kidney-related conditions, including:
   • Acute kidney injury (AKI)
   • Glomerulonephritis
   • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
   • Nephrotic syndrome
   • Hematuria (blood in urine)
   • Proteinuria (excess protein in urine)
   • Renal artery stenosis
6. Dialysis Services: For patients with advanced kidney disease requiring renal replacement therapy, the hospital may offer hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis services. These treatments help remove waste products and excess fluid from the body when the kidneys are no longer able to perform these functions adequately.

Overall, patients receiving nephrology treatment at the hospital can expect comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney-related conditions, including diagnosis, management, and ongoing monitoring to promote kidney health and overall well-being.