Nephrology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions related to the kidneys, as well as the management of kidney function and kidney-related disorders.

Common kidney-related symptoms include changes in urine output (frequency, color, volume), blood in the urine, swelling in the legs or face (edema), persistent high blood pressure, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood to form urine, maintaining electrolyte and acid-base balance, regulating blood pressure, and producing hormones that influence red blood cell production and calcium metabolism.

Risk factors for kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of kidney disease, obesity, smoking, age over 60, and certain ethnic backgrounds (such as African, Hispanic, or Asian descent).

 Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. It is diagnosed through blood tests to measure kidney function (estimated glomerular filtration rate or eGFR) and urine tests to check for albumin/protein in the urine.

Kidney failure can be managed through dialysis or kidney transplantation. Dialysis involves using a machine to filter the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so adequately. Kidney transplantation is the replacement of a failed kidney with a healthy kidney from a donor.

Hypertension is a common cause of kidney damage, and Nephrologists play a vital role in diagnosing and managing high blood pressure in patients with kidney disease. They prescribe medications and lifestyle modifications to control blood pressure and protect the kidneys.

Dietary recommendations for kidney health may include reducing sodium (salt) intake, limiting protein consumption, controlling phosphorus and potassium intake, and staying hydrated. Individualized dietary plans are created based on the specific needs of each patient.