What is a nephrologist?
Nephrologists are doctors that specialize in the treatment of conditions affecting the kidneys. After completing medical school, a nephrologist completes a three-year residency in internal medicine, then a two to three-year fellowship in nephrology. Finally, the doctor will take a board certification examination to be board certified in nephrology.
Why would you need to see a nephrologist?
You might be referred to see a neurologist if your primary care provider suspects that you have health issues related to your kidneys. The following might prompt a referral:
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Recurring kidney stones
- Foamy urine. This can be a sign of too much protein in your urine, meaning the kidneys aren’t filtering properly.
- Kidney failure or chronic kidney disease
- Blood or protein in the urine
- Kidney disease
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Renal artery stenosis
What does a nephrologist do on a first visit?
At your first visit, the nephrologist will review your medical and surgical history, medication list, and any testing you’ve had done. You’ll discuss any symptoms you have, and the doctor will perform a physical examination. You’ll probably leave a urine specimen for a urinalysis. After the examination, the doctor will develop a plan of care and may order additional testing.
What happens when you see a kidney specialist?
When you see a kidney specialist, you’ll add a new doctor to your team who focuses on the function and health of your kidneys. Kidney specialists monitor the function of your kidneys by routinely checking laboratory tests like a urinalysis and blood tests that measure how well your kidneys are filtering waste products from your blood. Other tests you might expect include:
Should I see a nephrologist or a urologist?
Both nephrologists and urologists treat kidney problems, but urologists focus on treating structural issues of the urinary tract. Also, urologists are surgical specialists. Nephrologists concentrate on treating disorders that affect the kidneys and their function. The two specialists may work together.
How do I find a good nephrologist?
Your primary care provider is an excellent source for referrals to specialists. However, some other things to consider when you are looking for a nephrologist include:
- Recommendations from friends and family members
- Look for a board-certified specialist
- Consider the gender of the specialist that you feel most comfortable with
- Consider the hospital system that the specialist is affiliated with
- Read patient reviews online
- Consider who is in-network with your insurance carrier
