How to Know Which is Right for You: Nephrologist or Urologist

If you have any issues related to your kidneys or kidney function, a nephrologist is the specialist you need. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent various kidney conditions, including chronic kidney disease, hypertension, diabetes-related kidney issues, and inflammation.

If you're dealing with conditions affecting the urinary tract beyond the kidneys, such as bladder problems, urinary incontinence, or male reproductive system issues like erectile dysfunction or male infertility, a urologist is the appropriate specialist to consult. Additional differences between nephrology and urology are:

Nephrology

• Nephrologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases related explicitly to the kidneys and urinary system.
• Nephrologists manage conditions such as chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, and kidney failure, along with addressing complications from other diseases affecting kidney function.
• Services provided include kidney transplants and various dialysis treatments.

Urology

• Urologists focus on diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and disorders of the entire urinary tract, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra, as well as male reproductive organs.
• They handle conditions like urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, and male reproductive health issues such as erectile dysfunction and male infertility.
• Urologists often specialize in surgical procedures related to the urinary tract and male reproductive system.

Schedule an Appointment with a Nephrologist in the Milwaukee, WI Area

At Midwest Nephrology, we are committed to providing individualized care and guidance to our patients, providing the best possible care for each kidney condition. Being one of Wisconsin’s longest-operating and largest nephrology groups, you can easily find a Midwest Nephrology location at with a team of providers ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology Associates for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Understanding Your Kidneys' Vital Functions:

Before understanding dietary recommendations for kidney disease, it's essential to understand the vital functions your kidneys perform:

• Filtering Your Blood: Your kidneys act as natural filters, removing waste and excess fluids from your bloodstream and preventing a buildup of toxins.
• Removing Waste: The waste collected during filtration is excreted through urine, a crucial process for maintaining a healthy internal environment.
• Producing Hormones: Kidneys produce hormones that regulate blood pressure, red blood cell production, and calcium metabolism.
• Balancing Minerals: Kidneys play a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.
• Maintaining Fluid Balance: Kidneys help regulate fluid levels, preventing dehydration or excessive fluid retention.

Foods To Avoid

Foods that are high in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus should be avoided. These foods can increase the workload on your kidneys and worsen your condition. It is essential to be monitored by a nephrologist who can help you understand your dietary restrictions based on your stage of kidney disease. People with early stages of kidney disease will have different dietary restrictions than those with end-stage renal disease or kidney failure.

• Dark-Colored Soda: High amounts of phosphorus.
• Avocados: High in potassium.
• Canned Foods: High in sodium.
• Whole Wheat Bread: High in phosphorus and potassium.
• Brown Rice: High in phosphorus.
• Bananas: High in potassium.
• Dairy: Products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are high in phosphorus and calcium.
• Oranges and Orange Juice: High in potassium.
• Processed Meats: Products like bacon, sausage, and deli meats are high in sodium.
• Pickles, Olives, and Relish: High in sodium.
• Apricots: High in potassium.
• Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes: High in potassium and phosphorus.
• Tomatoes: High in potassium.
• Tomatoes: High in potassium.
  Packaged, Instant, and Pre-Made Meals
  :High in sodium.
• Swiss Chard, Spinach, and Beet Greens: High in potassium.
• Dates, Raisins, and Prunes: High in potassium.
• Dates, Raisins, and Prunes: High in potassium.
  Pretzels, Chips, and Crackers
  : High in sodium.

It's crucial to note that the specific dietary restrictions may vary depending on the stage of kidney disease. Individuals with early stages of chronic kidney disease will have different dietary guidelines than those with end-stage renal disease or kidney failure. Always consult your nephrologist to determine which diet is recommended for your needs.

Health & Wellness Tips for Kidney Health:

1. Hydration is Key: Stay hydrated to support kidney function. Water is the best choice; limit sugary drinks and sodas.
2. Mindful Protein Intake: Opt for high-quality protein sources like lean meats, fish, and eggs while monitoring your protein intake.
3. Control Portion Sizes: Manage portion sizes to avoid overloading your kidneys with excessive nutrients.
4. Limit Salt Intake: Reduce sodium intake to maintain a healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.
5. Regular Monitoring by a Nephrologist: Consult with a nephrologist regularly to track your kidney health, ensuring timely adjustments to your dietary plan.

Living with kidney disease requires a holistic approach, and your diet plays a pivotal role. By being mindful of the foods you consume and following a kidney-friendly routine, you can contribute to the overall well-being of your kidneys. Remember, regular consultations with a nephrologist are essential for personalized guidance and monitoring throughout your journey with kidney disease.

Schedule an Appointment with a Nephrologist in the Milwaukee, WI Area

At Midwest Nephrology, we are committed to providing individualized care and guidance to our patients, providing the best possible care for each kidney condition. Being one of Wisconsin’s longest-operating and largest nephrology groups, you can easily find a Midwest Nephrology location with a team of providers ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology Associates for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Different Types of Home Hemodialysis

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)

Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) is a form of at-home hemodialysis that revolutionizes the way individuals manage kidney failure. Unlike traditional hemodialysis, which relies on machines, CAPD is performed continuously without the need for complicated equipment. Patients can administer treatments themselves, typically engaging in the process three to five times each day. This flexibility allows for integration into everyday life, and CAPD can be performed in any clean and safe environment, offering patients the freedom to choose the setting that suits their preferences and lifestyle.

Automated peritoneal dialysis (APD)

Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) represents a sophisticated advancement in at-home hemodialysis, streamlining the process with the assistance of a specialized machine called a "cycler." Unlike Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD), APD is an automated procedure that allows individuals to administer their dialysis exchanges without constant manual intervention. Also referred to as Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis (CCPD), APD provides patients with a range of scheduling options. Whether opting for a long single session during sleep, multiple shorter sessions throughout the day, or even a combination of both, individuals can tailor their treatment to better align with their daily routines.

Schedule an Appointment with a Nephrologist in the Milwaukee, WI area

At Midwest Nephrology, we are committed to providing individualized care and guidance to our patients, providing the best possible care for each kidney condition. Being one of Wisconsin’s longest-operating and largest nephrology groups, you can easily find a Midwest Nephrology location with a team of providers ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology Associates for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Medications That Improve Kidney Filtration

Following diagnostic tests, your nephrologist may suggest medications that have shown promise in enhancing kidney filtration. Always trust your physician's recommendations as they consider your specific circumstances. Medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) may be prescribed to manage hypertension and optimize kidney function. Similarly, diuretics, or "water pills," can be recommended for fluid level imbalances. Your physician ensures that your medication and treatment plan align with your unique needs to enhance kidney filtration effectively.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

Your physician may recommend ACE inhibitors, recognizing their dual benefits in addressing hypertension and improving kidney function. These medications work by inhibiting the production of angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels. ACE inhibitors contribute to the dilation of blood vessels, alleviating pressure on the kidneys and ultimately enhancing kidney health. Trust your physician's judgment, especially if hypertension is a concern, for a comprehensive approach to managing blood pressure and renal well-being.

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

When kidney strain is a concern, your physician may recommend ARBs as part of your treatment plan. Similar to ACE inhibitors, ARBs focus on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. ARBs effectively block the action of angiotensin II, reducing pressure on the kidneys and managing blood pressure. Trust your physician's expertise, as ARBs are crucial in preserving optimal kidney function as part of your personalized treatment strategy.

Diuretics

Your nephrologist may suggest diuretics or "water pills" based on your unique situation. Diuretics boost urine production to regulate fluid levels, alleviating the workload on your kidneys. Your physician tailors your treatment plan to your specific challenges, ensuring a targeted approach for more efficient filtration and enhanced kidney function.

The Importance of Diagnostic Tests

While medications are vital in improving kidney filtration, diagnostic tests are the foundation of personalized care. Always follow your physician's guidance, as mandatory tests like glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and creatinine clearance provide essential insights into your renal health. These diagnostics serve as a compass, guiding healthcare professionals to craft the most effective medication regimen tailored to your individual needs. Trust your physician's expertise in utilizing diagnostic tests to enhance your kidney health.

Schedule an Appointment with a Nephrologist in the Milwaukee, WI Area

At Midwest Nephrology, we are committed to providing individualized care and guidance to our patients, providing the best possible care for each kidney condition. Being one of Wisconsin’s longest-operating and largest nephrology groups, you can easily find a Midwest Nephrology location with a team of providers ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology Associates for more information or to schedule a consultation.

 

First Stage Kidney Disease Symptoms

Kidney failure first-stage symptoms can be subtle and may not be noticed until the disease has progressed. So, how do you know if you're in the first stage of kidney disease? It's crucial to be aware of the subtle hints your body might be giving you. While the symptoms may not be obvious, there are symptoms you can look out for. Here are some first-stage kidney failure symptoms to watch out for:

• Fatigue: You may begin to feel unusually tired, even after a full night's sleep.
• Changes in Urination: Pay attention to any changes in the frequency or color of your urine. You may notice that you're urinating more frequently, or it may appear foamy or darker than usual.
• Swelling: Kidney dysfunction can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in your ankles, feet, or face.
• Difficulty Concentrating: As waste products build up in your bloodstream, you might experience difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly.
• Increased Thirst: You might find yourself drinking more water than usual due to excessive thirst.

Common Kidney Disease Tests

If you suspect that you have kidney disease, several tests can be completed to diagnose it. Kidney disease diagnosis is vital for early intervention and management. These tests include:

• Blood Pressure Measurement: Hypertension is a common cause of kidney disease. Monitoring your blood pressure can reveal potential issues.
• Urinalysis: A simple urine test can detect protein or blood in your urine, which can be signs of kidney problems.
• Blood Tests: A simple urine test can detect protein or blood in your urine, which can be signs of kidney problems.
• Imaging: Imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans can identify structural abnormalities in the kidneys.
• Kidney Biopsy: In some cases, a kidney biopsy may be necessary to determine the extent of kidney damage.

Schedule an Appointment with a Nephrologist in the Milwaukee, WI Area

At Midwest Nephrology, we are committed to providing individualized care and guidance to our patients, providing the best possible care for each kidney condition. Being one of Wisconsin’s longest-operating and largest nephrology groups, you can easily find a Midwest Nephrology location with a team of providers ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology Associates for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Midwest Nephrology adapts and honors advancements in research. Our team of providers diligently research treatments and new practices to provide our patients with the best and most advanced care. A few of the most recent items published include research on Aldosterone worsening Kidney Disease, experimentation with changing Kidney Transplant Blood Type, as well as studies involving Pediatric Neuropsychiatric conditions.

ALDOSTERONE LINKED TO WORSENING KIDNEY DISEASE

Aldosterone, a hormone produced by the triangular adrenal glands, is a crucial, salt-conserving hormone. In a nearly 10-year observational study, researchers analyzed data from 3,680 people with chronic kidney disease. Those with elevated levels of aldosterone had a higher risk of serious kidney disease progression during the study period. This means they are more likely to lose half of their kidney function, begin dialysis treatment, or develop end-stage kidney disease.

You may be wondering how aldosterone is linked to kidney disease. For someone that is dehydrated or has low blood pressure, this hormone can help conserve water and salt, but if the levels of aldosterone are consistently present at a high concentration within the body, it can cause kidney damage. When aldosterone is constantly at a high level, it can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure), which can then lead to damage to the kidneys and heart.

Kidney Specialist Ashish Verma, an assistant professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine highlighted the drug, Finerenone, a nonsteroidal drug approved by the FDA for people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Verma said that Finerenone can help prevent kidney disease, or its progression in people without diabetes, with a lower risk of causing dangerously high potassium levels than traditional therapies such as spironolactone or eplerenone.

A CHANGE IN KIDNEY TRANSPLANT BLOOD TYPE

In a ground-breaking discovery, researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully altered the blood type of three donor kidneys. Professor Mike Nicholson and PhD student Serena MacMillion used a normothermic perfusion (a device that connects with a human kidney to pass oxygenated blood through the organ to better preserve it for future use) to flush blood infused with an enzyme, through a deceased kidney. This enzyme removed the blood type markers that line the blood vessels of the kidney, resulting in the kidney being converted to the universal O type. Changing the blood type to the universal O will allow for more transplants to take place.

The Cambridge team will now need to determine how a newly altered O-type kidney will react to a patient’s usual blood type in their normal supply. With the use of a perfusion machine, this process can be simulated before doing so on a patient. With the perfusion machine, they will take the new O-type kidneys, and introduce different blood types to observe how they react.

One of the biggest restrictions to a donated kidney transplant is that the blood type must be compatible. Antigens and markers on your cells are either A or B, and your body produces antigens against the markers that you do not have. With the discovery of altering blood types, patients will have easier access to kidney transplants compatible with their blood type.

PEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHIATRIC CONDITIONS LINKED TO RARE GENETIC VARIANTS

Early genomic testing could help identify an increasing number of genomic variants associated with intellectual disabilities, and the likelihood of those children developing neurodevelopmental or mental health conditions. This allows for intervention as soon as possible.

For children presenting developmental delays, or intellectual disabilities, exome or genome sequence analysis is recommended. Previously, there has been a limitation on rare genomic variants and the long-term outcomes for those children. The existing research is limited to small sample sizes or portions of children with moderate to severe disabilities. A recent study published in The Lancet Psychiatry aimed to evaluate the influence of environmental and genetic factors on the prognosis.

This study is the largest to date and measures the impact of rare genetic variants associated with intellectual disability. It was found that the children are likely to develop other neurodevelopmental or mental health conditions. An identifiable genetic cause was found to amplify the likelihood of neurodevelopmental conditions, as well as behavioral difficulties. Physical health problems were also prevalent in the study, reporting things such as disturbed sleep, motor or movement disorders, fine motor problems, and cerebral palsy.

CONTACT MIDWEST NEPHROLOGY ASSOCIATES TODAY

Have any questions or concerns? Our dedicated team of physicians and certified staff are here to help answer all your questions and can help set up an appointment for you or a loved one. Contact Midwest Nephrology Associates for more information on Kidney Cancer and for help finding a treatment that works best for you.

The only way to know whether you have kidney disease is to be evaluated by a medical professional. That is where the experts at Midwest Nephrology come in. They can help you reach a diagnosis and prescribe treatment, or can even help you identify another cause of your symptoms. Contact one of our clinics for more information and to schedule an appointment with a professional.

KIDNEY DISEASE SYMPTOMS

Kidney disease symptoms tend to show up in later stages or when the kidney is failing. If you experience the following symptoms or are at risk due to high blood pressure, diabetes, or have a family history of kidney disease, we recommend that you get tested at one of our many clinic locations.

When it comes to warning signs, some common symptoms may include bladder issues, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, dry skin, difficulty concentrating, decreased appetite, cramping, back pain, and high blood pressure.

INCREASED URINATION
Feeling the increased need to urinate, especially at night, can be a sign of kidney disease. When the kidney filters are damaged this can cause a high need to urinate.

CHANGES IN URINE
The appearance of urine can change due to kidney disease. Seeing blood or foamy urine due to poor kidney filters and increased protein are both signs that you may have kidney disease. If you have an abnormal urine test or abnormal levels of phosphorus, calcium, or vitamin D in your urine, this can lead to cramping symptoms. Poor filtering can cause various imbalances that may show up on urine tests and help reveal a more serious issue.

FATIGUE
Kidney issues can cause issues with filtering out toxins and impurities in the blood causing you to feel tired or weak. This can lead to shortness of breath due to your kidneys not removing enough fluids. Excess fluids can then build up in your lungs causing shortness of breath and breathing problems.

DIFFICULTY SLEEPING
Kidney disease will prevent toxins from leaving the blood, which can cause issues with sleep. Obesity and sleep apnea are also more common in those who suffer from kidney disease.

DRY SKIN AND SWELLING
When kidneys can no longer maintain the proper amount of minerals and nutrients in your blood, you may experience mineral and bone disease causing you to itch and have dry skin.

Someone with kidney disease may experience swelling in their hands, legs, or feet. This is because kidney disease can affect sodium retention levels, and high levels of sodium can cause swelling in the hand, legs, and feet areas.

DIFFICULTY CONCENTRATING
Similarly to fatigue, poor filtering of toxins and impurities in the blood can cause issues with concentration and focus.

DECREASED APPETITE
Poor filtering and a buildup of toxins can decrease your overall appetite.

CRAMPING AND BACK PAIN
Impaired or diseased kidneys can result in electrolyte imbalances like lower calcium causing cramping. Some people with kidney disease may also experience lower back pain and discomfort around where the kidneys are located. This may also be due to infection associated with the disease.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Poor filtering and excess fluid and sodium can cause you to experience high blood pressure. Over time, high blood pressure can also damage blood vessels in the kidneys and can make the disease worse.

MIDWEST NEPHROLOGY IS HERE TO HELP

At Midwest Nephrology, our dedicated team of providers and certified staff are ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology if you have any questions or are looking for a consultation today.

WHAT ARE NURSE PRACTITIONERS?

Nurse Practitioners are registered nurses who have advanced training in diagnosing and treating a variety of illnesses. Unlike regular Nurses, Nurse Practitioners have the ability to also prescribe medications. While you generally only see your physician for an annual check-up or follow-up appointments, you’ll be working closely with your Nurse Practitioner to find a treatment path that works best for you and your individual needs.

These highly qualified and experienced healthcare workers will help you find the right balance to help with prevention, wellness, and education while working in tandem with your physician. And when it comes to Kidney Disease and treating it, you’ll be working with a specialized Nurse Practitioner who has experience in the field and can help guide you throughout your individual treatment journey.

CAN NURSE PRACTITIONERS PRESCRIBE MEDICATION?

Yes, Nurse Practitioners are essential to your kidney treatment in part to their ability to prescribe medication. These nurses have gone through rigorous training and passed a special education program that grants them a national certification that enables them to prescribe the required medication to patients.

WHY ARE NURSE PRACTITIONERS IMPORTANT?

Since all patients are different and require different prescriptions, Nurse Practitioners work together with you and your doctor to review your individual medication dosing and interval needs. They will constantly review any and all possible allergies, medication history, and side effects with a patient in order to customize your experience throughout your kidney treatment process.

Whether you were recently diagnosed with kidney disease, are in the early stages of kidney treatment, or recently had a transplant; Nurse Practitioners are here to help. Throughout your kidney disease journey, different medication is needed to help ensure your best possible day-to-day life.

MIDWEST NEPHROLOGY IS HERE TO HELP

At Midwest Nephrology, our dedicated team of providers and certified staff are ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology if you have any questions or are looking for a consultation today.

To start with, it’s important to understand what your kidney’s jobs are. Kidneys are vital to your health and well-being, filtering out waste, extra water, and minerals from your bloodstream. The filtered waste your body doesn’t need is turned into urine which passes through two thin tubes (ureters) into your bladder which you’ll later discard when using the restroom.

WHAT CAUSES KIDNEY STONES

Individuals with kidney issues may not properly filter minerals, which causes renal calculi (kidney stones) to form in a variety of shapes and sizes. This occurs due to minerals such as calcium and oxalate oversaturating your urine and creating crystallization in your urine.

Kidney stones can occur due to a wide range of circumstances. Different types of kidney stones include calcium stones, uric acid stones, struvite stones, and cystine stones. While the most common is caused by an abundance of calcium oxalate left in your urine, others can occur due to having high levels of uric acid, a urinary tract infection, or a genetic build-up of amino acid cystine.

While some kidney stone disorders can be genetic, others can be caused by poor diet and exercise, dehydration, and other medications that affect your kidney’s filtration. Staying hydrated and reducing your salt intake can help you reduce the likelihood of a kidney stone.

While not all kidney stones are painful or even noticeable; if you’re experiencing pain, nausea, or notice blood in your urine you should contact your physician. Together, we’ll determine the best course of action to reduce your pain and help you prevent possible future issues.

MIDWEST NEPHROLOGY IS HERE TO HELP

At Midwest Nephrology, our dedicated team of providers and certified staff are ready to assist you in diagnosing and treating your kidney concerns. Contact Midwest Nephrology if you have any questions or are looking for a consultation today.