Are you seeking a kidney doctor in the Daphne, AL, area? Nephrology Associates of Mobile provides the Alabama Gulf Coast with all types of kidney-related health care. If you suspect you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), it's important to find a physician who can effectively monitor and manage your condition. At Nephrology Associates, you'll find the Daphne area's local kidney experts. Our team is committed to providing the right care for each patient-- and we have multiple locations in Mobile and Baldwin counties, to make it easy and convenient for you to receive the care you need!
Kidney Disease Treatment in Baldwin County, Alabama
What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) means that a person's kidneys have been damaged and are not functioning as effectively as healthy kidneys would. A healthy kidney filters the blood for excess water and wastes-- such as salts and minerals-- maintaining a very precise balance and sending the wastes and excess water out of the body as urine. Kidneys are also responsible for releasing hormones essential to healthy blood pressure, strong bones, and the creation of new red blood cells. Damaged kidneys are unable to perform these functions as well as they should, and this can lead to a variety of health problems, which can worsen with time.
The word "chronic" in "chronic kidney disease" means that CKD is a slowly progressing disease that takes place over a long period of time. There may be no symptoms in the early stages of CKD, however, the damage is often progressive and can even lead to kidney failure, in the long term. In cases of kidney failure, dialysis or a kidney transplant are necessary. For these reasons, CKD should be taken seriously, because if it's left untreated it can be dangerous-- even life-threatening. Fortunately, treatment options are available. The sooner CKD is diagnosed and treatment begun, the better your chances of protecting your kidney function and avoiding other related problems.
A person's kidney condition can worsen, unnoticed, even if they still feel well. By the time a patient experiences obvious symptoms, their CKD may already be at an advanced stage. It's important to speak to a physician if you suspect you're at increased risk of CKD. A nephrologist (kidney specialist) can monitor your kidney health through blood or urine tests and recommend a suitable treatment plan, should one be necessary.
Who is at Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease?
Certain people are at a greater risk of developing kidney disease. These include those who have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney failure. The longer a person has one of these conditions, the greater their chances of developing CKD. A person's risk of having CKD increases with age. There's also a higher CKD risk factor for people of certain ethnicities (African American, Hispanic, and American Indian).
A person with chronic kidney disease is at an increased risk for other health problems, including stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. CKD can both cause and result from high blood pressure. On a positive note, early detection and treatment of CKD can make a meaningful difference in your long-term health. Once your doctor knows you are at increased risk from these other linked conditions, they can monitor you for them and offer strategies and lifestyle changes to better manage your risk.
Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis in Daphne, AL
The thought of discovering you have chronic kidney disease can be alarming. However, there's no reason to fear or avoid seeking a diagnosis. Most patients with kidney disease will never need dialysis. They'll continue to live their lives mostly as they always have. The usual result of a CKD diagnosis is a change in diet and other minor lifestyle adjustments-- the types of things most of us should be doing, anyway! Your nephrologist will guide you through these suggested changes and continue to monitor your kidney health periodically.
If you have concerns about your kidney health, we'd like to help! Nephrology Associates of Mobile can run the necessary tests, provide a diagnosis, and implement a treatment plan, if one is needed. The kidney specialists at Nephrology Associates provide state-of-the-art treatment for renal problems, such as CKD. We have several convenient locations near Daphne, AL-- including three in Baldwin County. Or you can drive across the Bay to visit us in Mobile.
Let us help get you on the path to a healthier future! Schedule your visit today!