Nephrology

• Kidney Function Testing: Monitoring how well your kidneys filter blood.

• Dialysis: A treatment used to remove waste and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys aren’t functioning properly.

• Kidney Transplants: Replacing a damaged kidney with a healthy one from a donor.

• Hypertension Management: Treating high blood pressure, which is closely linked to kidney health.

Understanding Kidney Health

Kidney health is essential for maintaining overall well-being. The kidneys help regulate fluid balance, remove waste from the blood, and produce essential hormones. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of serious health issues, including fluid retention, high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances.

To maintain good kidney health:

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps the kidneys filter waste effectively.

• Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet low in salt and rich in fruits and vegetables can help keep your kidneys healthy

• Monitor Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease, so it’s important to keep it under control

Common Problems with Kidney Health

Several conditions can impact kidney health. Some of the most common kidney problems include:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose function.

• Kidney Stones: Hard deposits of minerals and salts that can cause pain and block urine flow.

• Acute Kidney Injury: A sudden loss of kidney function due to injury, infection, or medication.

• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder that causes fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys, leading to kidney failure.

If left untreated, kidney problems can lead to serious complications, including end-stage renal disease, which may require dialysis or a kidney transplant.

How to Prepare for Different Kidney Surgeries

When kidney surgery is necessary, such as for kidney stones, transplants, or removing tumors, it’s important to prepare both physically and mentally. Some common kidney surgeries include:

• Nephrectomy: Removal of a kidney due to cancer or severe damage.

• Kidney Transplant: Replacing a failing kidney with a donor kidney.

• Ureteroscopy: A procedure to remove kidney stones using a thin scope inserted into the ureter.

Preoperative Preparation for Kidney Surgery

Proper preoperative preparation can significantly improve surgery outcomes. Here’s how to prepare:

• Medical Testing: Before surgery, your doctor will perform tests like blood work and imaging scans to assess your overall health and kidney function.

• Fasting: You’ll be instructed to fast for several hours before surgery to prevent complications with anesthesia.

• Medication Adjustments: Your doctor will advise which medications to stop or continue before the procedure, especially blood thinners.

• Emotional Preparation: It’s natural to feel anxious before surgery. Speak with your doctor about any concerns, and ensure you understand the surgery process.