Nephrology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study of the kidneys, and the treatment of kidney diseases and conditions. Novant Health Nephrology provides comprehensive kidney care to patients with a wide range of kidney problems, from acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease. The team of experienced nephrologists at Novant Health offers a variety of services, including:
Novant Health has a long history of providing high-quality nephrology care. The first Novant Health nephrology clinic opened in 1975, and since then, the program has grown to include multiple locations throughout the region. Novant Health nephrologists are actively involved in research and education, and they are committed to providing the latest and most innovative treatments for kidney disease.
If you are experiencing any kidney problems, it is important to see a nephrologist for evaluation and treatment. Novant Health nephrologists can help you manage your kidney disease and improve your overall health and well-being.
Novant Health Nephrology
Novant Health Nephrology provides comprehensive kidney care to patients with a wide range of kidney problems, from acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease. The team of experienced nephrologists at Novant Health offers a variety of services, including:
- Kidney transplantation
- Dialysis
- Nephrology consultations
- Kidney stone management
- Hypertension management
- Electrolyte disorders
- Acid-base disorders
- Mineral metabolism disorders
- Pediatric nephrology
- Nephrology research
These key aspects of Novant Health Nephrology highlight the comprehensive range of services offered by the program, as well as its commitment to providing high-quality care to patients with kidney disease.
Kidney Transplantation
Kidney transplantation is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney from a donor is transplanted into a person with end-stage kidney disease. Kidney transplantation is the best treatment option for people with end-stage kidney disease, as it can restore kidney function and improve quality of life. Novant Health Nephrology is a leader in kidney transplantation, and has performed more than 1,000 kidney transplants.
The kidney transplant team at Novant Health is highly experienced and dedicated to providing the best possible care to patients. The team includes surgeons, nephrologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who work together to ensure that patients have a successful transplant and long-term kidney function.
Novant Health Nephrology also offers a living donor kidney transplant program. This program allows people to donate a kidney to a loved one or friend who needs a transplant. Living donor kidney transplantation is a great option for people who want to help someone they care about and improve their quality of life.
If you are considering a kidney transplant, Novant Health Nephrology is the best choice for your care. The team of experienced professionals will work with you to determine if a kidney transplant is right for you, and will provide you with the best possible care throughout the transplant process.
Dialysis
Dialysis is a procedure that helps remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are not working properly. Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for people with end-stage kidney disease, and it can also be used to treat acute kidney injury.
- Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is the most common type of dialysis. In hemodialysis, blood is removed from the body and passed through a dialyzer, which is a special filter that removes waste products and excess fluid. The filtered blood is then returned to the body.
- Peritoneal dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis is another type of dialysis that uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a filter. In peritoneal dialysis, a dialysis solution is instilled into the abdomen through a catheter. The solution absorbs waste products and excess fluid from the blood, and it is then drained out of the abdomen.
- Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT)
CRRT is a type of dialysis that is used to treat acute kidney injury. In CRRT, blood is continuously removed from the body and passed through a dialyzer. The filtered blood is then returned to the body.
- Plasmapheresis
Plasmapheresis is a type of dialysis that is used to treat certain autoimmune diseases and other conditions. In plasmapheresis, blood is removed from the body and the plasma (the liquid part of the blood) is separated from the red blood cells. The plasma is then treated to remove harmful substances, and the red blood cells are returned to the body.
Novant Health Nephrology offers a full range of dialysis services, including hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, CRRT, and plasmapheresis. The dialysis team at Novant Health is highly experienced and dedicated to providing the best possible care to patients. The team includes nephrologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who work together to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Nephrology Consultations
Nephrology consultations are a key part of the services offered by Novant Health Nephrology. Nephrologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. They can provide expert advice on a wide range of kidney problems, including:
- Acute kidney injury
- Chronic kidney disease
- Kidney stones
- Hypertension
- Electrolyte disorders
- Acid-base disorders
- Mineral metabolism disorders
Nephrology consultations can be helpful for people who are experiencing any of these problems, as well as for people who are at risk for developing kidney disease. Nephrologists can provide information about the causes of kidney disease, the different treatment options available, and the lifestyle changes that can help to prevent or slow the progression of kidney disease.
If you are experiencing any kidney problems, or if you are at risk for developing kidney disease, it is important to see a nephrologist for a consultation. Early diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease can help to improve your overall health and well-being.
Kidney Stone Management
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. They can cause severe pain when they pass through the urinary tract. Kidney stones are a common problem, affecting about 10% of the population.
Novant Health Nephrology offers comprehensive kidney stone management services, including:
- Diagnosis and evaluation of kidney stones
- Medical treatment to dissolve or break up kidney stones
- Surgical treatment to remove kidney stones
- Prevention of future kidney stones
The kidney stone management team at Novant Health is highly experienced and dedicated to providing the best possible care to patients. The team includes nephrologists, urologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who work together to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of kidney stones, such as severe pain in the back, side, or abdomen; nausea and vomiting; or difficulty urinating, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones can help to prevent serious complications.
Hypertension management
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition that can lead to serious health problems, including kidney disease. Novant Health Nephrology offers comprehensive hypertension management services to help patients lower their blood pressure and reduce their risk of kidney disease and other complications.
- Medication management
Novant Health nephrologists can prescribe a variety of medications to lower blood pressure. These medications work by blocking the hormones that cause blood vessels to narrow, or by increasing the production of hormones that cause blood vessels to widen.
- Lifestyle changes
Novant Health nephrologists can also help patients make lifestyle changes that can lower blood pressure, such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
- Monitoring and follow-up
Novant Health nephrologists will monitor patients’ blood pressure regularly to ensure that it is under control. They will also provide patients with follow-up care to help them maintain a healthy blood pressure.
Hypertension management is an important part of Novant Health Nephrology’s comprehensive approach to kidney care. By helping patients lower their blood pressure, Novant Health nephrologists can help them reduce their risk of kidney disease and other complications.
Electrolyte disorders
Electrolyte disorders are imbalances in the levels of electrolytes in the body. Electrolytes are minerals that are found in the blood and other body fluids, and they play an important role in many bodily functions, such as regulating blood pressure, muscle function, and nerve function. Electrolyte disorders can occur when the levels of electrolytes in the body are too high or too low.
Novant Health Nephrology is a team of experienced nephrologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases and electrolyte disorders. Electrolyte disorders are a common problem among kidney disease patients, as the kidneys play an important role in regulating electrolyte levels in the body. Novant Health nephrologists can provide expert care for patients with electrolyte disorders, and they can help to manage the underlying kidney disease that is causing the electrolyte imbalance.
There are many different types of electrolyte disorders, and the symptoms of an electrolyte disorder can vary depending on the type of electrolyte that is imbalanced. Some common symptoms of electrolyte disorders include:
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Coma
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Electrolyte disorders can be serious if they are not treated, and they can even be fatal in some cases.
Novant Health Nephrology can provide expert care for patients with electrolyte disorders. The team of experienced nephrologists can diagnose and treat electrolyte disorders, and they can also help to manage the underlying kidney disease that is causing the electrolyte imbalance. If you are experiencing any symptoms of an electrolyte disorder, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Acid-base disorders
Acid-base disorders are imbalances in the pH of the body’s fluids. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including kidney disease, respiratory problems, and metabolic disorders. Acid-base disorders can lead to a number of serious health problems, including coma and death.
- Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic acidosis occurs when the body produces too much acid or loses too much base. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including kidney disease, diabetes, and lactic acidosis. Symptoms of metabolic acidosis include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and confusion.
- Respiratory acidosis
Respiratory acidosis occurs when the lungs are unable to remove enough carbon dioxide from the body. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and pneumonia. Symptoms of respiratory acidosis include shortness of breath, confusion, and headache.
- Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis occurs when the body loses too much acid or gains too much base. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including vomiting, diarrhea, and diuretic use. Symptoms of metabolic alkalosis include muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting.
- Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when the lungs remove too much carbon dioxide from the body. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including hyperventilation and salicylate toxicity. Symptoms of respiratory alkalosis include dizziness, lightheadedness, and tingling in the hands and feet.
Novant Health Nephrology is a team of experienced nephrologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases and acid-base disorders. Novant Health nephrologists can provide expert care for patients with acid-base disorders, and they can help to manage the underlying kidney disease or other condition that is causing the acid-base imbalance.
Mineral metabolism disorders
Mineral metabolism disorders are imbalances in the levels of minerals in the body. These disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including kidney disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and certain medications. Mineral metabolism disorders can lead to a number of serious health problems, including bone disease, heart disease, and kidney failure.
Novant Health Nephrology is a team of experienced nephrologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases and mineral metabolism disorders. Novant Health nephrologists can provide expert care for patients with mineral metabolism disorders, and they can help to manage the underlying kidney disease or other condition that is causing the mineral imbalance.
One of the most common mineral metabolism disorders is calcium imbalance. Calcium is essential for healthy bones and teeth, and it also plays an important role in muscle function, nerve function, and blood clotting. Calcium imbalance can occur when the body does not absorb enough calcium from the diet, or when the body loses too much calcium through the urine or stool. Calcium imbalance can lead to a number of health problems, including osteoporosis, muscle cramps, and kidney stones.
Novant Health nephrologists can diagnose and treat calcium imbalance and other mineral metabolism disorders. Treatment for mineral metabolism disorders typically involves dietary changes, medication, and supplements. Novant Health nephrologists will work with patients to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.
Pediatric nephrology
Pediatric nephrology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases in children. Novant Health Nephrology offers comprehensive pediatric nephrology services to children with a wide range of kidney problems, from acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease.
- Diagnosis and evaluation
Novant Health pediatric nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and evaluating kidney diseases in children. They use a variety of tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies, to determine the cause of a child’s kidney problems.
- Medical treatment
Novant Health pediatric nephrologists offer a variety of medical treatments for kidney diseases in children, including medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. They work closely with families to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual needs of each child.
- Dialysis
Dialysis is a procedure that helps remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are not working properly. Novant Health pediatric nephrologists offer a variety of dialysis options for children, including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
- Kidney transplantation
Kidney transplantation is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney from a donor is transplanted into a child with end-stage kidney disease. Novant Health pediatric nephrologists are experts in kidney transplantation and offer a variety of services to support children before, during, and after transplantation.
Novant Health Nephrology is committed to providing the best possible care to children with kidney diseases. The team of experienced pediatric nephrologists works closely with families to provide compassionate and comprehensive care.
Nephrology research
Nephrology research is essential to advancing our understanding of kidney diseases and developing new treatments for patients. Novant Health Nephrology is committed to supporting nephrology research and has a long history of conducting groundbreaking research in the field. Our researchers are actively involved in a wide range of research projects, including:
- Identifying the causes of kidney disease
Novant Health nephrologists are conducting research to identify the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of kidney disease. This research is essential for developing new strategies to prevent kidney disease and improve the lives of patients.
- Developing new treatments for kidney disease
Novant Health nephrologists are also conducting research to develop new and more effective treatments for kidney disease. This research includes developing new medications, devices, and therapies to slow the progression of kidney disease and improve the quality of life for patients.
- Improving the care of kidney disease patients
Novant Health nephrologists are also conducting research to improve the care of kidney disease patients. This research includes developing new ways to diagnose kidney disease early, improve patient education, and provide support to patients and their families.
- Translational research
Novant Health nephrologists are also engaged in translational research, which is the process of translating research findings into new treatments and therapies for patients. This research is essential for ensuring that the latest research findings are quickly and effectively translated into new treatments for patients.
Novant Health Nephrology is committed to continuing to support nephrology research and to translating our research findings into new and better treatments for patients with kidney disease.
Frequently Asked Questions about Novant Health Nephrology
Novant Health Nephrology provides comprehensive kidney care to patients with a wide range of kidney problems. Our team of experienced nephrologists offers a variety of services, including kidney transplantation, dialysis, and nephrology consultations. We are committed to providing the best possible care to our patients and their families.
Question 1: What is nephrology?
Nephrology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study of the kidneys and the treatment of kidney diseases. Nephrologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney problems.
Question 2: What are some common kidney problems?
Some common kidney problems include acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections.
Question 3: What are the symptoms of kidney problems?
The symptoms of kidney problems can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include swelling in the hands, feet, and face; fatigue; nausea and vomiting; and changes in urination.
Question 4: How are kidney problems diagnosed?
Kidney problems are diagnosed through a variety of tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies.
Question 5: How are kidney problems treated?
The treatment for kidney problems depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.
Question 6: What is the prognosis for people with kidney problems?
The prognosis for people with kidney problems depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. With early diagnosis and treatment, most people with kidney problems can live full and active lives.
If you have any concerns about your kidney health, please talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment of kidney problems can help to improve your overall health and well-being.
Learn more about Novant Health Nephrology services:
Tips from Novant Health Nephrology
Novant Health Nephrology is a team of experienced nephrologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. We offer a variety of services to help patients manage their kidney health, including:
- Kidney transplantation
- Dialysis
- Nephrology consultations
- Kidney stone management
- Hypertension management
- Electrolyte disorders
- Acid-base disorders
- Mineral metabolism disorders
- Pediatric nephrology
- Nephrology research
We are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care and education. Here are some tips from our nephrologists to help you maintain good kidney health:
Tip 1: Drink plenty of fluids.
Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it is especially important for people with kidney disease. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the kidneys.Tip 2: Eat a healthy diet.
A healthy diet is low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. These minerals can build up in the blood and damage the kidneys. A healthy diet also includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.Tip 3: Exercise regularly.
Regular exercise helps to keep the kidneys healthy by improving circulation and reducing blood pressure.Tip 4: Get regular checkups.
If you have kidney disease, it is important to get regular checkups to monitor your kidney function and overall health.Tip 5: Follow your doctor’s orders.
If you are taking medication for kidney disease, it is important to take it as directed. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking.Tip 6: Don’t smoke.
Smoking damages the blood vessels and can lead to kidney disease.Tip 7: Manage your blood sugar.
High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels and lead to kidney disease.Tip 8: Control your blood pressure.
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels and lead to kidney disease.
By following these tips, you can help to maintain good kidney health and reduce your risk of developing kidney disease.
Learn more about Novant Health Nephrology services:
Novant Health Nephrology
Novant Health Nephrology provides comprehensive kidney care to patients with a wide range of kidney problems. Our team of experienced nephrologists offers a variety of services, including kidney transplantation, dialysis, and nephrology consultations. We are committed to providing the best possible care to our patients and their families.
Kidney disease is a serious health problem that can affect people of all ages. Early diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease is important to prevent serious complications. If you have any concerns about your kidney health, please talk to your doctor.
