Commonly called “kidney doctors,” a nephrologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the kidneys. The term nephrologist comes from the Greek word, “nephros,” which means kidney. When you add “-ologist,” which means someone who studies, you get “nephrologist.” The American Kidney Fund explains what a nephrologist is and does, as well as how they form an important part of your chronic kidney disease (CKD) care team.* 

Understanding your condition 

Most people are referred to a nephrologist after visiting with a primary doctor who notices abnormal blood test results. During your first visit, the nephrologist will get to know you and ask you questions about your medical history and lifestyle. This is a great time for you to ask questions, as well. Bringing a notebook can be helpful, both to have a record of the questions you asked, as well as to jot down any important notes during the visit. 

A routine physical and some bloodwork should allow your nephrologist to determine what is damaging your kidneys and find a way to ideally slow down and/or prevent progression to kidney failure. If they are unable to find the cause of your kidney disease, a kidney biopsy (a procedure where a very small piece of your kidney is taken and closely examined) may be necessary.  

Putting together a treatment plan 

Upon viewing previous tests and diagnosis results from your first appointment, your nephrologist will be able to stage your CKD and develop a treatment plan. 

This may include the following:  

• Prescribe medications to directly treat your CKD and any related medical conditions you may have, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Other associated conditions you may be treated for are anemia, gout, high levels of phosphorus, or high levels of potassium. 

• Lifestyle changes, including dietary habits, physical activity, and use of tobacco and alcohol, may also be included in the treatment plan discussed by your nephrologist. 

• Dialysis is typically a treatment option for those with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), i.e., stage 5 CKD. There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Based on your physical ability, lifestyle, and support system, your doctor will help you to determine the best dialysis treatment plan for you. 

• A kidney transplant is considered to be the best treatment option for people with kidney failure, or ESKD. Receiving a kidney transplant increases your chances of living a longer and healthier life, although not everyone is a good candidate for transplant.

Connecting you to helpful resources 

To ensure you have the necessary resources to follow this treatment plan, your nephrologist will likely provide you with some recommendations that include: 

• referring you to a renal dietitian (a specialist in nutrition for the kidneys), who can help you create a healthy, kidney-friendly diet;
• helping you find a dialysis center that is close to your home; and
• referring you to a transplant surgeon

If standard treatments are not effectively slowing your kidney disease progression, your nephrologist may also recommend you participate in a clinical trial. Clinical trials are studies that use new medicines or approaches to treat diseases and are usually free or low-cost for participants. 

*Gamper, H. (2020, June 12). Meet your treatment team: Nephrologist. American Kidney Fund. https://www.kidneyfund.org/kidney-today/meet-your-treatment-team-nephrologist.html