Education
Kidney Disease
Our team; which includes Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants, have expertise in the diagnosis and management of Kidney Disease. It is the goal of our providers to assist patients in identifying medications as well as dietary and fluid regiments that can put them at risk for damage to their kidneys. Their focus is on preserving kidney health and creating a treatment plan to meet the needs of each individual patient. In addition to providing kidney treatment plans, our advanced practitioners provide education classes focusing on Kidney Disease as well as dialysis treatment options using guidelines approved by the National Kidney Foundation.
Cancer Related Kidney Disease
Many do not know the affect that cancer and chemotherapy have on the kidneys. Our doctors have a passion in this evolving field called Onconephrology. They work in collaboration with the treating oncology physician to ensure clear communication between the whole team and which leads to a successful and safe outcome for our patients with cancer related illness.
Hypertension
Hypertension is a common illness that can go undetected because it often presents without symptoms. In certain situations, the blood pressure gets hard to control despite using several medications. There are several reasons for an increase in blood pressure including; ineffective medication combinations, dietary habits, other medical diagnoses, etc. which our Physicians take into consideration when developing the best treatment plan to help each patient regain control of their blood pressure. Our Physicians look for the source of the increase in blood pressure and assist in diagnosing any underlying medical problems that could be contributing to the hypertension.
Autoimmune Disorders
Several autoimmune disorders like Lupus and Vasculitis can affect the kidney in a significant way. If not diagnosed in a timely manner, it can lead to a catastrophic outcome on the kidneys leading to dialysis and the need for a kidney transplant. Our Physicians are specialized to detect these conditions and aggressively treat it to avoid significant long term complications.
Electrolyte Disorders
For the body to function properly; electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus should be in normal range. Too low or high of any of these electrolyte levels can lead to life threatening complications. The electrolyte levels can vary naturally or due to medications. The Physicians at Nephrology Associates, SC are well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of electrolyte imbalances as well as pH balance disorders.
Bone Disease including Osteoporosis and Paget’s Disease
Osteoporosis puts patients at high risk for fracture leading to a higher risk for mortality. Not many are familiar with the role that the kidneys have in maintaining good bone health. To help maintain healthy bones, the kidneys activate Vitamin D and manage calcium, phosphorus and parathyroid hormone levels in the body. Our Kidney specialists have the expertise to assist patients in managing bone disorders including Osteoporosis, even if they do not have kidney disease. The management of Osteoporosis can get complex with the presence of kidney disease; however, patients can be rest assured that our Physicians are well trained to help patients with complicated multisystem disorders.
Paget’s disease is a bone disorder where the bones in certain areas of the body start to get thicker, leading to nerve compression and pain. Rarely this can evolve into a type of bone cancer called osteosarcoma. Our Physicians actively monitor and manage these patients to make sure they are safe and avoid complications related to this illness.
Kidney Stones
Recurring kidney stones can cause more than pain and discomfort; they can potentially lead into kidney disease. Our Physicians provide medical management for kidney stones. Often times appropriate diet regiments are given and in some instances medications are prescribed to help avoid or reduce the frequency of kidney stone formation. Urology specialists also help with managing current stones with surgical intervention.
Patient Resources
CDC Vaccination Recommended Schedule
–Adult Schedule, by Vaccine and Age Group
–Recommended Vaccinations Indicated for Adults Based on Medical and Other Indications
–Adult Contraindications and Precautions
The National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
-Information about preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by kidney disease and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation.
The Paget Foundation
-Information about Paget’s disease of bone and related disorders.
National Osteoporosis Foundation
-Information about the prevention of osteoporosis, fractures and broken bones and the reduction of human suffering hide.
American Society of Hypertension, Inc.
-Information about preventing and treating hypertension and it consequences.
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse
-Information you need to know about kidney stones.
Suggested Foods for Dialysis Patients by the AAKP
-A list of suggested foods for dialysis patients from the American Association of Kidney Patients.
American Kidney Fund
-Information about living healthy with kidney disease.
ABCs of Kidney Stones
-Information to help prevent recurrent kidney stones.
National Kidney Disease Education Program
-Information on improving the understanding, detection, and management of kidney disease.
American Association of Diabetes Educators
-Mulidisciplinary association of healthcare professionals dedicated to integrating self-management as a key outcome in the care of people with diabetes and related chronic conditions.
American Diabetes Association
-The latest news on diabetes research, food and fitness, and opportunities to support the American Diabetes Association.
American Heart Association
-Information to build a healthier life, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
-Information and support on many of the most serious diseases affecting public health.