What Does Nephrologist do?

A Nephrologist is a medical doctor who specializes in kidney health. They diagnose and treat conditions that affect the kidneys, such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, kidney infections, kidney stones, electrolyte imbalances, and high blood pressure related to kidney problems. Nephrologists manage patients who need dialysis and monitor those who have had kidney transplants. They also help prevent kidney damage by controlling Diabetes, Hypertension, and other risk factors.unlike urologists, nephrologists do not perform surgery; they focus on medical treatment, long-term care, and slowing the progression of kidney disease to improve overall health and quality of life.

How Dialysis is Treated?

Dialysis is a medical treatment used when the kidneys can no longer effectively remove waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. It does not cure kidney failure—it replaces part of the kidneys’ function to keep the body balanced and alive.There are two main types. Hemodialysis uses a machine and a special filter (dialyzer) to clean the blood.Blood is drawn from the body through a vascular access, filtered, and returned. This is usually done three times a week in a dialysis center or at home. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen as a natural filter. A cleansing fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a catheter, absorbs waste, and is then drained out.

Dialysis helps control blood pressure, maintain electrolyte balance, and reduce symptoms like swelling, fatigue, and nausea. Treatment plans depend on the patient’s condition, lifestyle, and overall health.

what are the causes of kidney failure

Kidney dialysis becomes necessary when the kidneys fail to perform their essential function of filtering waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. The most common cause is chronic kidney Failure, often resulting from long-term diabetes and high blood pressure, which slowly damage kidney blood vessels.

Repeated or severe kidney infections can also scar the kidneys and reduce their function.Certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, may cause the immune system to attack kidney tissue. Prolonged blockage of urine flow due to kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or tumors can lead to kidney damage. Excessive use of painkillers, antibiotics, or exposure to toxic substances may harm the kidneys over time. In some cases, sudden kidney failure caused by severe dehydration, blood loss, or shock can require temporary dialysis. When kidney function drops below a critical level, dialysis is needed to sustain life.