Dr. Ruth Pepper

You should consult a nephrologist if you have:

• Persistent high blood pressure
• Abnormal kidney function tests (e.g., elevated creatinine or low eGFR)
• Protein or blood in your urine
• Swelling in hands, feet, or face
• Kidney stones or recurrent urinary tract infections
• History of kidney transplant or need for dialysis

Common tests include:

• Blood tests (creatinine, urea, electrolytes)
• Urine tests (urinalysis, protein, microalbumin)
• Imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI of kidneys)
• Kidney biopsy for detailed tissue analysis

Nephrologists provide:

• Medication management for kidney disease and high blood pressure
• Dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis)
• Kidney transplant evaluation and follow-up
• Lifestyle and dietary counselling to protect kidney function

Yes. Nephrologists often manage conditions closely linked to kidney health, such as:

• Diabetes and its impact on the kidneys
• High blood pressure
• Electrolyte and mineral imbalances (e.g., calcium, phosphate)
• Bone disease related to chronic kidney disease

The frequency depends on your condition:

• Chronic kidney disease: typically every 3–6 months
• Dialysis patients: multiple times per week
• Post-transplant: regular follow-ups as per your transplant team