Description

Nephrology

Nephrologists are doctors who specialize in conditions
that affect the kidney. Kidney issues are on the rise around the world, with
millions of people each year undergoing treatments for kidney injury or chronic
kidney disease (CKD). In fact, kidney disease ranks as the 12th leading cause
of death globally and the 9th leading cause in the United States.

In the United States, 15% of adults are believed to have
chronic kidney disease. Though 90% of them don’t realize it or don’t visit a
nephrologist until the disease has become serious and expensive. 

Having your kidneys malfunction is even more likely than
having your liver malfunction, primarily due to the chronic health conditions
that develop at the same time. Kidney disease can develop from existing health
issues like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure. It can
also cause high blood pressure and heart disease to develop, even if you didn’t
have these conditions before.

Chronic kidney disease can also lead to health
complications like anemia, osteoporosis, a weakened immune system, or an
irregular heartbeat. This cause-and-effect relationship shows how important it
is to have healthy kidneys, and to be proactive in seeing a nephrologist who
can treat and manage any kidney issues you have.