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What a nephrologist does

A nephrologist is a physician who specialises in the kidneys. After MBBS and MD/DNB in medicine, nephrologists complete a DM or DNB in Nephrology. They treat kidney disease with medicines, manage dialysis, and care for patients before and after kidney transplantation; a urologist is the surgeon for stones and the urinary tract.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing problem in India, largely driven by diabetes and high blood pressure. It is often silent until advanced, so testing people at risk is vital.

Signs and risk factors

• Swelling of feet, face or around the eyes, and foamy urine.
• Reduced or increased urine, blood in urine or night-time urination.
• Fatigue, nausea, itching, poor appetite or breathlessness.
• High creatinine or low eGFR on blood tests, or protein in urine.
• Diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, kidney stones, family history or long-term painkiller use.

Conditions treated

Chronic and acute kidney disease, diabetic and hypertensive kidney damage, nephrotic syndrome, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, kidney stones with kidney impairment, electrolyte problems, and kidney failure needing dialysis or transplantation.

Tests

Key tests are creatinine, eGFR, urea/BUN, urine routine, urine microalbumin and electrolytes, along with ultrasound of the kidneys. A kidney biopsy may be needed in some conditions. Early treatment with blood-sugar and blood-pressure control, specific medicines and diet can slow progression.

Dialysis and transplantation

When kidneys fail, options are haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or transplantation, which gives the best long-term quality of life for suitable patients. Dialysis is available at many centres including under government schemes such as PM National Dialysis Programme. Costs vary by centre, so ask for a clear estimate.

Fees

Nephrologist consultation fees commonly range from around ₹600 to ₹1,800 and may vary by city and hospital.

Choosing a kidney specialist

Verify DM/DNB Nephrology qualification, ask about dialysis and transplant facilities, and prefer centres with infection-control standards. Protect your kidneys by controlling sugar and blood pressure, avoiding NSAID painkillers, staying hydrated and limiting salt. Compare nephrologists and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.