Kidney doctors are callednephrologists.
They treat conditions that affect the kidneys, like chronic kidney disease and kidney stones.
They also may help people manage chronic conditions like diabetes that could affect their kidneys.
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The Good Brigade / Getty Images
What Is a Nephrologist?
Nephrologists are medical doctors who focus on the health of the kidneys.
They can help diagnose kidney conditions and provide treatment and management.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
The name nephrologist comes from the Greek word nephros," meaning kidneys.
Nephrologists can work in hospitals or clinics, or have their own (private) practice.
What Conditions Can a Kidney Doctor Treat?
Renal is a medical word that refers to the kidneys.
Other medical problems can also affect the kidneys.
Nephrologist vs. Urologist
Urologists and nephrologists are different kinds of healthcare providers that can treat kidney problems.
It’s important to see a nephrologist at an early stage if you have kidney problems.
Some early warning signs include:
Can Kidney Disease Cause No Symptoms?
Early on with kidney disease, and sometimes even with advanced kidney disease, people may have few symptoms.
It’s very common for people with kidney disease to have no symptoms.
Risk Factors for Kidney Disease
Kidney disease can get serious before you ever have symptoms.
Kidney Injuries
Your kidneys are located on your flanks near your spine.
In advanced stages, nephrologists may need to put you on dialysis.
Some people should see a kidney doctor much sooner.
They will look at any tests that have already been done and explain what they mean.
If not, they might recommend you try changing your treatment or starting something new.
Its important that you feel like you might advocate for your health.
If not, you might ask them if they would recommend someone.
you’re free to also look for practices that are within a reasonable traveling distance.
Summary
A provider who treats kidney problems is called a nephrologist.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
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