Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products effectively. Management includes monitoring kidney function, identifying underlying causes and treating contributing conditions. Appropriate medication, blood pressure control, diabetes management and dietary measures may help slow disease progression and reduce complications.
Preventive nephrology focuses on identifying kidney problems before advanced damage develops. Screening may include kidney function tests, urine protein measurements and blood pressure evaluation. Early management of diabetes, hypertension and other risk factors can help protect kidney function and reduce the likelihood of complications.
Kidney transplantation may be considered for eligible patients with advanced kidney disease. Evaluation includes reviewing overall health, transplant-related risks and donor compatibility. Nephrologists also provide medical care following transplantation, including monitoring kidney function and managing immunosuppressive medications and possible complications.
Haemodialysis removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood when kidney function becomes inadequate. A dialysis machine circulates blood through a specialised filter. Treatment planning includes determining the appropriate schedule, monitoring electrolytes and fluid balance, and addressing complications associated with dialysis.
A kidney biopsy involves obtaining a small sample of kidney tissue for microscopic examination. It may be recommended when certain kidney diseases cannot be adequately diagnosed using blood tests, urine tests or imaging. Biopsy findings can help guide treatment for inflammatory or other glomerular conditions.
Glomerular diseases affect the kidney's filtering units and may cause proteinuria, haematuria, swelling or impaired kidney function. Evaluation can involve blood investigations, urine testing and kidney biopsy. Treatment varies according to the specific diagnosis and may include medicines to control inflammation, blood pressure or protein loss.
Pregnancy can affect kidney function and may complicate pre-existing kidney disease. Specialist care involves monitoring maternal kidney function, blood pressure and pregnancy-related risks. Management requires collaboration with obstetric teams to support maternal and fetal health and select appropriate investigations and medications.
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related disorder involving elevated blood pressure and signs of organ involvement, often including kidney effects. Gestational hypertension develops during pregnancy without all the diagnostic features of preeclampsia. Both conditions require appropriate maternal and fetal monitoring and timely specialist treatment.
Acute kidney injury is a sudden reduction in kidney function that may occur because of severe illness, dehydration, infection or medication-related effects. Treatment focuses on identifying the cause, monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance and preventing further kidney damage. Severe cases may require temporary dialysis.
Kidney disorders can disturb sodium, potassium and acid-base balance. These abnormalities may cause weakness, irregular heart rhythms or other serious symptoms. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity and may include medication adjustments, fluid management or urgent hospital care.
Heart and kidney health are closely connected. Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the kidneys, while reduced kidney function can worsen cardiovascular risks. Cardio-renal management involves assessing blood pressure, kidney function, fluid balance and associated heart conditions to guide individualised treatment.
Metabolic evaluation for recurrent kidney stones investigates factors contributing to stone formation. Assessment may include blood tests, urine studies and review of dietary patterns or medical conditions. Findings can guide preventive measures intended to reduce the likelihood of future stone episodes.