Is a nephrologist different from a urologist?

Yes, a nephrologist specializes in the treatment of kidney-related disorders, and often works in tandem with urologists to provide medical insight on complex urinary issues.

What are some telltale symptoms of kidney problems?

The most common kidney problem signs are pain in the lower abdomen, irregular urination, and abnormalities in urine (e.g., blood).

Does diabetes and heart disease increase my risk of kidney disease?

Yes, studies show that the presence of cardiac disorders and diabetes increase the risk of kidney failure.

Can kidney stones be cured naturally?

Kidney stones beyond a certain size will require medical attention for effective destruction. The usual method for destruction is lithotripsy.

Should I visit a nephrologist if I have a UTI?

Usually, a urologist can treat most UTIs on their own. In more complex cases, however, you may have to consult with a nephrologist in Dubai.

Comprehensive Kidney Care with a Patient-Centric Approach

A nephrologist is a medical specialist who deals with the treatment of your kidneys. Given their pivotal role in filtering waste from our systems, any ailment that impacts the kidneys will usually require immediate medical attention from a nephrology specialist. Alongside their primary function of waste removal from the body, your kidneys also perform additional functions like regulating specific hormone release. They also ensure your body always maintains a healthy balance of electrolytes.

Being the primary site of waste filtration from your blood, the kidneys are intricate structures, made up of individual units called nephrons at the tissue level. For the kidneys to maintain optimum function, a healthy balance in physiological parameters such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and autoimmune diseases. Individuals with these chronic conditions should regularly schedule appointments with a leading nephrologist to gauge potential symptoms of kidney problems.

Nephrology specialists provide treatment for kidneys after a thorough assessment of the present state and health of your kidneys, especially their efficiency in blood filtration. If left undetected, kidney problems can quickly proliferate into severe conditions such as renal failure and chronic kidney disorders.

To better diagnose symptoms of kidney problems, a nephrology specialist might recommend consultation with a urologist, especially in cases where kidney issues cause further complications such as urinary infections. A joint diagnosis and treatment regimen will be prescribed in such cases, accounting for factors such as medical history, severity of infection, and current treatment prescriptions.

Kidney diseases present themselves in various forms, with distinct onset patterns for each type of disease. For instance, among the more common kidney ailments a nephrologist in Dubai treats regularly includes:

- Kidney disease/renal failure: When a kidney malfunctions, immediate medical attention from a nephrologist is crucial. Initial diagnosis involves identifying the root cause of the failure, and the extent of its repercussions on the kidney and urinary system.
- Kidney stones: These are formed as crystalline deposits of minerals and/or salt. They arise due to the kidneys’ inability to filter residual waste from the blood and cause significant pain during urination. Seeing a nephrology specialist at the earliest can help in understanding what causes kidney stones and treat them through suitable methods.
- Electrolyte imbalance: Maintaining an ideal balance of electrolytes in the body is crucial for normal physiological functions. Nephrologists can treat these conditions with a specific focus on restoring balance to kidney filtrate electrolytes and pH.
- Glomerular issues: Glomeruli are cup-shaped appendages in the nephrons that filter blood at the cellular level. Inflammation in these structures requires a nephrologist’s attention for effective treatment.

In the UAE, you will find many of the best nephrologists in Dubai who provide treatment for a wide array of kidney disorders. Through the myAster application, you can access these practitioners for consultation booking through one seamless online interface. However, before scheduling an appointment, it is prudent to take a quick self-assessment of your kidney condition and apparent symptoms of kidney problems before your appointment.

When Should I Visit a Nephrologist in Dubai?

Since blood filtration is a core aspect of our daily functioning, symptoms of anomalies in your kidneys and associated organs will typically present themselves in varying degrees from the onset. People already undergoing treatment for complex renal diseases will also need to visit a nephrologist periodically, to receive in-clinic treatments such as dialysis.

Early detection of the characteristic symptoms of kidney anomalies can significantly influence treatment success rates. The initial signs (and risk factors) that something could be amiss with your kidneys can include:

- Chronic blood pressure fluctuations
- Presence of cardiac conditions
- Medical/family history of kidney issues
- High blood sugar/diabetes

In cases where the kidney disease has developed further, more prominent symptoms may present themselves, usually in the urinary system. Some of the common symptoms in these instances include:

- High protein or blood in the urine
- Sharp pains in the abdomen, especially during urination
- Trouble with urination

Preliminary tests (such as a urine test) can help determine the key parameters such as the GFR (glomerular filtration rate). It can also help identify factors behind stone formation, such as what causes kidney stones. You may be referred to a nephrology specialist by your general physician in case they suspect any of the above signs and symptoms for further consultation.

Nephrologists in Dubai also provide world-class facilities in renal disease management, from regular dialysis treatment to rehabilitation following extensive kidney procedures. After your initial diagnosis and assessment of kidney health, your nephrology specialist will prescribe a treatment and recovery regimen, providing insight into every stage of resolving your kidney issues.

Our myAster application grants you a seamless view of all available nephrologists in Dubai across our various facilities. Furthermore, you can also filter the specialists based on parameters such as languages spoken, and sub-specializations offered. The myAster portal provides the option of video consultation as well, for complete user convenience.

Common Procedures and Treatments

Our best nephrologists in Dubai offer many treatments and procedures to boost kidney health and function. Some of these treatments are simple outpatient diagnostic-based tests, while others are surgeries that require a multilayered approach. The treatment type prescribed will usually depend on the severity and degree of your kidney disease. Here is a list of common procedures performed by nephrology specialists:

- Hemodialysis: This procedure is recommended in cases of severe kidney failure (85% and above). Under your nephrologist's supervision, the procedure is performed at the clinic, usually conducted across three four-hour sessions every week.
- Non-invasive lithotripsy: In cases of minor kidney stones, your nephrologist may recommend non-invasive lithotripsy. Targeted sound waves will be deployed to break down the stones in your kidney, facilitating their natural removal through urination.
- Laparoscopic cyst ablation: Cysts may form in abnormally functioning kidneys, further impairing their function. Laparoscopic techniques may be suggested by your nephrology specialist to remove them with minimal hassle.
- Kidney transplant: When a diseased kidney has lost its function beyond treatment, the possibility of a transplant might be explored. Your nephrologist will advise you on the procedure stages, its implications, cost, donor requirements, as well as post-surgery recovery.
- Nephritis treatment: Your nephrologist may prescribe some lifestyle changes and supplemental medications on top of any procedures to alleviate the impact of glomerulonephritis.

Through the myAster application, you can access the best nephrologists in Dubai within a few intuitive steps. Get access to world-class nephrology care at your fingertips with myAster.