A nephrologist is a doctor who evaluates and manages diseases that affect kidney function. This can include chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, protein in the urine, kidney problems related to diabetes or high blood pressure, electrolyte disorders, dialysis needs and transplant-related kidney care.

Chronic kidney disease is a long-term reduction in kidney structure or function that persists over time. The stage and treatment plan depend on kidney-function measurements, urine findings, underlying causes and other health conditions. Regular monitoring can help guide treatment and follow-up.

Dialysis may be considered when the kidneys can no longer adequately perform key functions and a nephrologist determines that renal replacement therapy is needed. The decision is based on symptoms, kidney function, fluid balance, laboratory findings and the overall clinical picture rather than a single test result.

Kidney transplant evaluation usually involves reviewing kidney disease, overall health, laboratory results and other clinical factors to determine whether transplantation may be suitable. The exact assessment and next steps depend on the patient’s individual medical condition and the transplant program involved.

Yes. Diabetes and high blood pressure are common conditions that can affect kidney function over time. Monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar, urine findings and kidney-function tests can help clinicians identify kidney involvement and plan appropriate care.

Bring recent blood and urine reports, imaging results, hospital discharge papers if relevant, a current medication list and details of previous kidney treatment or dialysis. Having earlier creatinine or eGFR results can also help the nephrologist understand how kidney function has changed over time.