A nephrologist specializes in the health needs of people with kidney diseases and disorders. Nephrologists diagnose and treat kidney problems, such as kidney stones and kidney failure. They also help manage the conditions that kidney diseases can cause, such as high blood pressure.
A nephrologist typically:
Evaluates a patient’s medical history and kidney function
Diagnoses and treats acute and chronic diseases and conditions that affect the kidneys including high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, kidney disease, kidney failure, and kidney stones
Evaluates whether a person with kidney disease needs dialysis or a kidney transplant
Orders and performs kidney dialysis procedures
Analyzes the results of kidney disease screenings including urine tests, blood tests, and biopsies
Orders and interprets laboratory and imaging tests and prescribes medications
Provides care before and after kidney transplants and other kidney surgeries
Creates lifestyle plans for helping patients maintain their kidney function including dietary and medication changes
Oversees healthcare professionals who help patients manage their kidney conditions, such as surgeons, nutritionists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and social workers
Nephrologists may also be known by the following names: kidney doctor, renal specialist, or kidney specialist.
There are 110 specialists practicing Nephrology in Iowa with an overall average rating of 4.2 stars. There are 118 hospitals in Iowa with affiliated Nephrology specialists, including University Of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Mercyone Des Moines Medical Center and UnityPoint Health - Des Moines Iowa Lutheran Hospital.
