Nephrologist

A nephrologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. Nephrology is a sub-specialty of internal medicine. A doctor of internal medicine, commonly referred to as an internist, diagnoses and treats diseases of the entire adult body. This includes everything from treating ordinary illnesses such as a sinus infection, to dealing with more serious concerns such as diabetes. While a specialist, such as a nephrologist, treats specific illnesses, an internist concerns himself with the prevention of all disease. When the internist is faced with a patient with organ-specific concerns, such as a diabetic with protein in his urine, he refers him to a specialist. In this case the internist refers the patient to a nephrologist.

A nephrologist is a physician who after successfully completing the internal medicine residency completes a two-year fellowship program focused around the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. During this fellowship a nephrologist learns how to prevent and treat kidney disorders via controlling a patient's blood sugar, regulating blood pressure, monitoring body electrolytes, and balancing fluid levels.

It is common for a patient to find himself in a nephrologist's office via a referral from an internist. Common “red flags” that initiate such referrals include blood or protein in the urine, kidney stones, frequent urinary tract infections, etc. A nephrologist will examine such a patient and determine the correct regimen of treatment. For many patients treatment of the underlying condition, such as uncontrolled blood sugars, will rectify the problems. For others, medication might be needed. In extreme cases dialysis or a kidney transplant might be necessary.

In summary, a nephrologist is a trained internist who specializes in diseases of the kidneys.