Nephrology is the subspecialty of internal medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of kidney-related diseases. The two kidneys are located in the retroperitoneal space and are responsible for removing waste products and excess fluid, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, regulating blood pressure, and producing erythropoietin — the hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
Many kidney diseases are associated with systemic disorders — they are not limited to the kidney alone — and therefore require specialised investigation and treatment.
What conditions does nephrology cover?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) — A gradual, irreversible decline in kidney function developing over months or years. Often asymptomatic in early stages but detectable through laboratory results (eGFR, creatinine). Progression can be significantly slowed with appropriate treatment.
Acute kidney injury — A sudden deterioration in kidney function occurring within hours or days. Causes include severe infections, medications, dehydration or urinary tract obstruction. Often reversible when recognised early.
Kidney stones — Mineral deposits forming stones that can cause severe, wave-like pain (renal colic), bloody urine and urination difficulties. Treatment depends on stone size and location.
Glomerular diseases — Inflammation or damage to the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli), causing protein in urine, blood in urine and declining kidney function. Includes glomerulonephritis and nephrotic syndrome.
Urinary tract infections — Recurrent or complicated infections that may involve the kidneys (pyelonephritis), presenting with fever, back pain and urinary complaints.
Polycystic kidney disease — A hereditary condition where cysts form in the kidneys and gradually damage kidney tissue.
Kidney disease with diabetes and hypertension — Diabetes and hypertension are the two most common causes of chronic kidney disease. Regular nephrological monitoring is essential for these patients.
When should you see a nephrologist?
- Elevated creatinine or urea levels detected in laboratory tests
- Protein or blood found in urine
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Kidney stone complaints (flank pain, bloody urine)
- High blood pressure difficult to control with medication
- Kidney function monitoring with diabetes
- Swelling of limbs, face or around the eyes
- Urination changes: decreased or excessive volume, foamy urine
- Family history of kidney disease
- Fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea of unknown cause
What examinations do we perform?
- Laboratory tests: kidney function parameters (creatinine, eGFR, urea), electrolytes, complete blood count
- Urine tests: protein, blood, sediment, urine culture
- Abdominal ultrasound: kidney size, structure, stones and cysts
- Doppler ultrasound: renal artery blood flow assessment
- 24-hour urine collection: precise measurement of daily protein excretion and kidney function
What happens during the examination?
The consultation begins with a detailed medical history: the specialist asks about your complaints, previous conditions, medications and family history. Physical examination checks blood pressure, possible oedema and abdominal organs.
Based on laboratory results and imaging, a diagnosis is established and a personalised treatment plan developed. For chronic kidney disease, regular monitoring is particularly important to slow progression.
How to prepare
Please bring previous laboratory results (especially kidney function values), earlier ultrasound findings and a list of current medications. If 24-hour urine collection is required, you will be informed in advance.
Why choose IRIS Medical for nephrology?
Our nephrology practice features an experienced specialist working closely with the internal medicine, cardiology and diabetology teams. Kidney diseases often affect other organ systems, making a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach essential.
We provide personalised care with regular follow-up monitoring. Please contact us with confidence for kidney complaints or screening.