Nephrologists are the doctors who are specialized in diagnosing and treating the medical conditions, diseases & disorders related to kidneys. A medicinal branch that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases is called Nephrology. Nephrologists are also known as Renal specialists.

What are the qualifications of Nephrologists?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, the following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Nephrologist:

Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)
Fellowship in Nephrology
MRCP (UK)
MNAMS - Nephrology
FRACP - Nephrology
DM - Nephrology
PhD - Nephrology
FRCS - Nephrology
FRCP - Nephrology
DNB - Nephrology

When should an individual consult a Nephrologist?

Individuals who suffer from any of the following kidney diseases should consult a Nephrologist:

Bladder rupture
Cryoglobulinemia
Acute phosphate nephropathy
Kidney injury
Kidney failure
Byetta and renal failure
Capillary leak syndrome
Ectopic kidney
Angiomyolipoma
Cold diuresis
Bartter syndrome
Tubular necrosis
Amyloidosis
Down syndrome
Lobar nephronia
EAST syndrome
Urinary tract infections

Apart from these diseases, there are many other kidney disorders and medical conditions for which an individual should consult a Nephrologist.

What are the tests and procedures performed by a Nephrologist?

Following are few of the tests and procedures performed by Nephrologists:Tests:

Blood tests:

Serum creatinine
Glomerular filtration rate
Blood urea nitrogen
Urinalysis
Urine tests
24 hr urine test
Creatinine clearance test
Microalbuminuria

Procedures:

Ct scan
Ultrasound
Biopsies
Hemodialysis
Kidney transplant

How often should an individual visit a Nephrologist?

Depending on the severity of the kidney disease and health condition of the patient, one should consult a Nephrologist for every 6 months or as directed by a doctor. However, healthy individuals can visit a Nephrologist once in 2 years to check the medical condition of the kidneys.

What are the signs and symptoms that indicate severe kidney problems?

Few of the signs and symptoms that indicate severe kidney problems:

Nausea
Itchiness
Swelling in the ankle, feet, legs
Reduced urine output
Pain or fluid in the joints
Muscle cramps
Blood in the urine
High blood pressure
Memory problem and confusion
Sudden weight loss or severe weight loss