Nephrology is a branch of medicine that specializes in the study, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney diseases. Nephrologists are doctors who have undergone specialized training in nephrology. They can help people with a variety of kidney diseases, including:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD): CKD is a progressive condition that damages the kidneys over time. It can lead to kidney failure.
Acute kidney injury (AKI): AKI is a sudden loss of kidney function. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as infection, dehydration, and medication side effects.
Kidney stones: Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys. They can cause pain, bleeding, and infection.
Glomerulonephritis: Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the glomeruli, which are small filters in the kidneys. It can lead to kidney damage.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): PKD is a genetic disorder that causes cysts to form in the kidneys. It can lead to kidney failure.