Nephrologists are the specialist doctors who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of the medical conditions related to kidney conditions. They also get the training to manage the impact of kidney dysfunction on the rest of the body. 

Your general physician may refer to the nephrologist in Kolkata if they believe that the person shows signs of kidney problems. There may be kidney diseases, infections or growths, which may need further diagnosis.

Why Is There a Problem With Kidneys?

Kidney function is a measure of how well the kidneys are cleaning. When there is kidney dysfunction, it refers to the condition where the kidney is not able to remove the toxins. It also indicates the reduced ability to strike a balance of fluid in the body.

These functions of the kidney are in prime focus during the visit when the patient is at risk, and his condition is deteriorating at a fast pace. Other problems that indicate the severity and which only a nephrologist should further diagnose. The nephrologist should know why were you referred and their job is to understand the condition further so that they can assist in your care.

The extent of Kidney Damage

If your kidney is not working properly, it is crucial to find out how poorly they are functioning as compared to healthy kidneys. It is a question that you must ask and right from the initial visit and all the subsequent visits to the nephrologist.

While some causes of kidney dysfunction are temporary, but the others are permanent. Some conditions are related to continued loss of function over time. The rate at which it happens is an indicator of the frequency and the extent of attention needed to delay the kidney function decline.

Possible Remedies to Reverse the Decline

Nephrologist works hard to preserve kidney function, but it may or may not be possible. It all depends on your health condition and the medical condition. The nephrologist can help you understand if the kidney function is likely to decline with time or if there are therapies that may prevent it from happening or may even improve the condition.

Medical Procedures That May Be Performed

To diagnose the condition accurately, the nephrologist may have to perform a long list of test and the procedures and treatments. However, the most common tests that they may use to diagnose or monitor the kidney conditions are blood and the urine tests.

The kidneys filter the fluid and waste from the blood that creates urine. It means that the blood test and urine tests can often reveal whether or not the kidney is working properly. These tests can also check for the abnormal level of proteins which are related to kidney damage in the future. 

Blood Tests, Urine Tests and Medical Procedures

Standard blood tests are serum creatine whose higher levels indicate a possible problem. Glomerular filtration rate tests how well the kidney can filter the excess fluid and waste from the blood. Blood urea nitrogen is a waste from the body that break down protein in the food and drinks. 

Urine tests can also be conducted. In urinalysis, the urine is tested for the abnormalities. 24-hour urine tests, creatinine clearance, microalbuminuria are other tests that may be performed.

The nephrologist may also perform the medical procedures like ultrasound, CT scan, Biopsy, Hemodialysis, and kidney transplant as per the need.

Finally,

Many nephrologists in Kolkata are listed in sites of online healthcare providers. However, consider their experience, specialities, fee, and reviews before making an appointment. Keep in mind you can always take a second opinion