FAQ

You should consider a nephrology consultation if you experience symptoms like:

• Swelling (especially in legs, ankles, or around the eyes)
• Decreased urine output or foamy urine
• Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness
• Unexplained back pain or flank pain
• Blood in the urine
• High blood pressure that’s hard to control
• Unexplained changes in kidney function (e.g., high creatinine or abnormal kidney tests)

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension, or any condition that increases the risk of kidney disease, regular consultations with a nephrologist are recommended.

During your consultation, the nephrologist may recommend one or more of the following tests to assess kidney function:

• Blood Tests: To measure kidney function, including creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
• Urine Tests: To check for protein, blood, or other abnormalities.
• Ultrasound: To check the size and structure of the kidneys.
• CT Scan or MRI: For a detailed image of kidney structures.
• Kidney Biopsy: If needed, a biopsy may be done to examine kidney tissue for signs of disease.

During your consultation, the nephrologist may recommend one or more of the following tests to assess kidney function:

• Blood Tests: To measure kidney function, including creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
• Urine Tests: To check for protein, blood, or other abnormalities.
• Ultrasound: To check the size and structure of the kidneys.
• CT Scan or MRI: For a detailed image of kidney structures.
• Kidney Biopsy: If needed, a biopsy may be done to examine kidney tissue for signs of disease.

Treatment options for kidney disease depend on the condition's severity and cause. Some common treatments we offer include:

• Medications: To control blood pressure, reduce protein in the urine, and treat underlying causes of kidney disease.
• Dialysis: If kidney function deteriorates significantly, dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) may be required.
• Kidney Transplant: For end-stage kidney disease, kidney transplantation may be recommended, and we offer comprehensive care before and after the procedure.
• Lifestyle Modifications: We provide guidance on dietary changes, exercise, and managing comorbid conditions like diabetes and hypertension to protect kidney function.

Treatment options for kidney disease depend on the condition's severity and cause. Some common treatments we offer include:

• Hemodialysis: A machine filters the blood outside the body to remove waste, excess fluid, and toxins. This procedure typically takes place in a dialysis center.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: A catheter is placed in the abdomen, and the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) is used to filter waste and excess fluid. This can be done at home and is often used when hemodialysis is not an option.



Your nephrologist will help determine which type of dialysis, if any, is best suited for your condition.

The frequency of visits depends on the stage of your kidney disease and your overall health. For early-stage CKD, you may only need to see your nephrologist once every 6 to 12 months. For more advanced stages, more frequent visits may be required to monitor kidney function, control blood pressure, and manage complications.

At ARUN Kidney Center, we work with a variety of insurance providers to ensure that most of the necessary diagnostic tests and treatments are covered. Please confirm your specific insurance coverage with your provider to ensure that nephrology consultations, tests, and treatments are included under your plan.

For your nephrology consultation, please bring:

• A list of any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Any recent lab reports, test results, or imaging studies related to kidney function.
• A record of your medical history, including any chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
• Information about any family history of kidney disease.

If your nephrologist recommends a kidney biopsy or dialysis, the clinic will provide you with detailed instructions. For a kidney biopsy, you may need to stop certain medications (such as blood thinners) beforehand, and you will be given sedation during the procedure. For dialysis, you’ll receive guidelines on how to prepare for the procedure, including dietary restrictions or necessary testing.

You can easily schedule a nephrology consultation by calling us directly or through our website. Our team will help find the best time for your appointment and guide you through any pre-consultation requirements.

Treatment options for kidney disease depend on the condition's severity and cause. Some common treatments we offer include:

• Medications: To control blood pressure, reduce protein in the urine, and treat underlying causes of kidney disease.
• Dialysis: If kidney function deteriorates significantly, dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) may be required.
• Kidney Transplant: For end-stage kidney disease, kidney transplantation may be recommended, and we offer comprehensive care before and after the procedure.
• Lifestyle Modifications: We provide guidance on dietary changes, exercise, and managing comorbid conditions like diabetes and hypertension to protect kidney function.