If you are experiencing problems with your kidneys, your GP (General Practitioners) may refer you to a consultant nephrologist. A nephrologist is a medical professional who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the kidneys.
Common reasons for referral to a nephrologist include chronic kidney disease, kidney infections, kidney stones, and high blood pressure. Nephrologists can also treat conditions such as electrolyte imbalances, urinary tract infections, and nephritis.
During your appointment with a nephrologist, they will conduct a thorough examination of your kidneys and develop a personalised treatment plan. Treatment may involve medications such as diuretics, blood pressure medications, or antibiotics, or procedures such as dialysis or kidney transplant.
It is important to take care of your kidney health and seek medical attention if you are experiencing any problems. With the right care and support from a nephrologist, it is possible to manage and treat many kidney conditions and improve your overall quality of life.
At Blackrock Health, we know that medical issues can be very challenging - both emotionally and physically. Our team of specialists – including renal physicians- provides compassionate and supportive care to the people that we treat. We provide access without delay to cutting-edge diagnostic and medical technology. Our team will ensure that you receive the best possible care and treatment plan, tailored to your own needs. With decades of experience and expertise, we are committed to helping you. Working with us, we want you to achieve the most optimal outcome possible for your renal health. Whether you need routine care or more specialised treatment, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Renal medicine, also known as nephrology, is the treatment of conditions of the kidney. Your kidneys are like a filter for your body, filtering out waste, toxins, and extra water. When you have an issue with your kidneys, the waste in your body cannot go anywhere, leading to a build-up in your blood.
Our renal medicine experts offer full consultation, diagnostic services and advanced care alongside our dieticians and clinical teams.
Our team includes:
- Consultant nephrologists
- Consultant surgeons
- Dietitians
Learn more about our renal medicine services and book your visit.
Who we treat:
Our team cares for patients with:
Kidney stones
Kidney stones are built up crystals from waste products that form a hard lump. Most of the time, they can pass through themselves, however, if the larger crystals can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, severe pain that comes and goes and vomiting.
Chronic & recurrent kidney infections
A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection that occurs when bacteria enter through the urethra. Symptoms include pain when urinating, a lasting urge to urinate, back pain, cloudy urine, and a fever. Antibiotics normally get rid of a kidney infection, however if it should be checked out if it is reoccurring often.
Blood or protein in urine
Blood or protein in the urine is caused by kidney diseases. A test called urinalysis detects the issue.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure can cause kidney damage and kidney disease, as it can narrow the blood vessels, which in turn reduces the blood flow- to the kidneys.
Electrolyte imbalance
Experiencing electrolyte imbalance may be a sign of kidney disease and is important to get it checked out.
Acute kidney injury
Acute kidney injury is rapid renal failure. This normally occurs within a few days, and it can occur when you have a condition that slows the blood flow to your kidney, or you have experienced direct damage to your kidneys.
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease is another word for kidney failure, and it involves the gradual loss of function of the kidneys. It normally occurs when a different condition impairs the kidneys functioning, causing damage over time. Depending on the underlying issue, you may need a kidney transplant.
Diabetic nephropathy
This is damage to your kidneys due to diabetes.
Symptoms of Kidney issues:
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Tiredness and weakness.
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Darker urine.
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Joint swelling.
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Puffy eyes.
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Frequent need to urinate.
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Loss of appetite.
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Muscle cramps.
What to expect:
Once we've received your referral, we'll be in contact to arrange your first consultation.
Your consultant may refer you for more tests. This might include blood tests, renal function tests or radiology scans.
Once we have your diagnosis, your consultant will discuss the best course of treatment for you.
Should your treatment require, we provide day case and inpatient services for infusion or more sustained treatments. Our surgical team also provide a full range of procedures.
How do I get this?
You will need a referral letter from your GP or consultant before you make an appointment.
Is this insured?
Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance cover check page, or by contacting your health insurer.
How do I pay?
If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.
