Nephrology Associates of Mobile treats patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Mobile County and elsewhere along the Alabama Gulf Coast. If you have chronic kidney disease or suspect that you do, it's important to see a physician who can assess and help you manage your condition. Nephrology Associates of Mobile are the area's local kidney experts, and our team is dedicated to providing effective care tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Kidney Disease Treatment on the Alabama Gulf Coast
What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
A person who has chronic kidney disease (CKD) has damaged kidneys. A damaged kidney is not as effective as a healthy kidney at filtering water and wastes from the blood. Normally, a healthy kidney filters salts and minerals in the blood to a precise balance, with the excess leaving the body as urine. The kidneys also release hormones that are essential for controlling blood pressure, keeping bones strong, and creating new red blood cells. A damaged kidney can't perform these functions as effectively, leading to a number of health problems that can worsen over time.
CKD is referred to as a chronic disease simply because it takes place slowly, over a long period of time. In early stages, there may be no symptoms, but the damage is often progressive and can eventually lead to kidney failure. Kidney failure requires dialysis or a kidney transplant. In short, CKD can be dangerous or even life-threatening, if left untreated. However, there are treatment options available, and the sooner you receive treatment, the better you'll be able to protect your kidneys from further damage.
A person can feel fine, yet their kidney condition is worsening, unnoticed. Their long-term health is being impacted, even though they feel alright at the moment. Because symptoms often only present when CKD is at an advanced stage, it's a good idea to speak to a physician if you have reason to suspect that you're at increased risk of chronic kidney disease. Your doctor can monitor your kidney health through blood or urine tests.
Who is at Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease?
People who have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney failure are at greater risk of developing kidney disease. The longer you have one of these conditions, the higher the likelihood that you'll have kidney disease. A person's risk of developing CKD also increases with age. People of certain ethnicities (African Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians) tend to have a higher risk for CKD, as well.
Unfortunately, CKD can increase a person's chances of having other health problems, such as a stroke, heart disease, or a heart attack. High blood pressure can both cause and result from kidney disease. Treating CKD early can help-- and knowing that you're at an increased risk from these other conditions gives your doctor a chance to monitor you for them and suggest ways to prevent them.
Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis in Mobile, AL
It can be frightening to consider the possibility that you may have chronic kidney disease, but there's no reason to avoid seeking diagnosis. Most people who have kidney disease never need dialysis. They are able to continue living full, happy lives doing the things they enjoy. Diet changes and other healthy lifestyle adjustments are the usual result of a CKD diagnosis. Your nephrologist, or kidney doctor, will help you monitor your health and keep you at your best.
If you're concerned about your kidney health, Nephrology Associates of Mobile can run the necessary tests, provide a diagnosis, and implement a treatment plan, should one be necessary. Our local kidney specialists offer state-of-the-art treatment for a variety of renal problems, including CKD. We're here to help guide you toward a brighter, healthier future.
Nephrology Associates of Mobile provides specialist kidney care for patients in Mobile, Alabama, as well as surrounding areas of the Gulf Coast. We have office locations in West Mobile and Mid-Town Mobile-- or in Foley, Fairhope, and Bay Minette, for patients in Baldwin County. Schedule your visit today!