How do I find a good nephrologist?

Choosing a Nephrologist

  1. Look for a doctor who treats your specific type of kidney disease (i.e. glomerular disease).
  2. Find out whether the doctor participates in your health insurance plan.
  3. Talk to others who may have been treated for kidney disease or check with your primary care physician for a referral.

Do I need a referral to see a nephrologist?

If you need to see a nephrologist, your primary care doctor should be able to refer you to one. In some cases, your insurance company may require that you have a referral from your primary care doctor before you can visit a specialist.

What does nephrologist do on first visit?

On your first visit, your nephrologist will gather information from you. He or she will review your medical history, and do a complete physical exam. To determine how your kidneys are functioning, he or she will order blood and urine tests. A kidney ultrasound may be required, and additional studies may be necessary.

What does a nephrologist help with?

Nephrologists are medical professionals who diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic kidney problems and diseases. They also treat associated issues like high blood pressure, fluid retention, and electrolyte and mineral imbalances.

Which doctor is best for kidney stone?

Small kidney stones that don’t block your kidney or cause other problems can be treated by your family doctor. But if you have a large kidney stone and experience severe pain or kidney problems, your doctor may refer you to a doctor who treats problems in the urinary tract (urologist or nephrologist).

What is the best treatment of kidney?

There are two treatment options for kidney failure: dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) and kidney transplantation. Talk with your family so you can decide which treatment will best fit your lifestyle needs. Also you always have the choice to change to a different type of treatment in the future.

When should a patient be referred to nephrology?

Referral to nephrology should be considered when the GFR is <60 ml/min and is mandatory when the GFR is <30 ml/min.

What procedures do nephrologists perform?

Nephrologists and nephrology trainees perform native and transplant kidney biopsies in 98% to 99% of programs and, in about half of programs, also perform the ultrasound guidance. Diagnostic ultrasounds are performed at fewer programs. Temporary dialysis catheters are inserted at nearly all programs.

Why would you need to see a kidney specialist?

In addition to managing kidney problems (trying to correct the condition or prevent it from worsening), kidney doctors manage the symptoms often associated with kidney diseases, such as electrolyte disturbances (especially problems with potassium levels) and high blood pressure.

Can a 13 mm kidney stone pass?

Kidney stones that are less than 5 millimeters (mm) in size will commonly pass with medical management. Stones that are greater than 10 mm will usually require surgery. Those in between are managed medically first and then surgically if they do not pass.

Which injection is best for stone pain?

If the stone is causing severe pain, the urologist may choose to prescribe a narcotic. Providers may also inject patients with Ketorolac (Toradol), a more powerful anti-inflammatory medication.