Nephrology / Renal
Nephrology is the branch of medicine that focuses on renal diseases or those related to the kidney. Kidneys have many important functions. It is their job to remove waste and extra fluids from the body. Kidneys also play a key role in controlling blood pressure and keeping bones healthy through vitamin D production.
The board-certified nephrologists at NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of kidney conditions at our nephrology clinic.
Our services include treatment for:
- Acute Kidney Injury:Acute kidney injury is when a kidney fails due to an injury, medication, or illness. It causes a quick and dramatic decline in kidney function with symptoms coming on suddenly and severely, and can be caused by an enlarged prostate, heart attack, kidney stones, sepsis, traumatic injury, or severe infection. Symptoms include a rapid decrease in urination, nausea, weakness, fatigue, and swelling of legs, feet, or ankles.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Chronic Kidney Disease refers to the gradual loss of kidney function, meaning they are unable to properly eliminate excess fluid and waste, which can lead to additional complications, including anemia, heart disease, and stroke. Chronic kidney disease can be asymptomatic but can be confirmed with blood and urine tests. Medication and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease, including kidney dialysis. When kidneys fail, kidney transplants are also a viable option for some patients.
- Cystic Kidney Disease (CKD):CKD is a group of conditions that cause cysts to develop in or around a patient’s kidneys. The cysts can prevent the kidneys from working properly and, if left untreated, can cause kidney failure.There are many types of CKD, some of which are genetic. Patients with existing chronic kidney disease are more likely to develop CKD. Symptoms include back pain, difficulty urinating, headaches, blood in the urine, and kidney stones.
- Glomerulonephritis: Glomerulonephritis, also referred to as nephritis or nephrotic syndrome, occurs when the kidney’s blood vessels become inflamed. Glomerulonephritis can be acute or chronic and can be caused by strep throat, impetigo, or other diseases, including lupus. It can also be a secondary infection related to hepatitis or HIV. Patients with untreated high blood pressure or diabetes can also experience Glomerulonephritis. Symptoms include pink, dark, or foamy urine, puffy face, hands, and feet caused by fluid retention, and less frequent urination.
- Kidney Stones:There are multiple types of kidney stones, which are deposits resulting from high levels of minerals and salts in your kidney. Dehydration and low urine volume can cause kidney stones, as can diet, bowel conditions, and obesity. Symptoms include sharp cramping in the lower back or groin that may fluctuate, intense feeling of needing to urinate, blood in urine, and nausea and vomiting. Many stones pass by themselves and do not require medical intervention. For patients who require intervention, some medications can help, and surgery can be an option as well.
Dialysis Clinic
Dialysis is an ongoing treatment for patients whose kidneys are failing. It removes the waste and extra fluid from your body when your kidneys are no longer able to do so on their own. Our kidney dialysis center at South Brooklyn Health provides patients with state-of-the-art dialysis machines and a comfortable setting to receive kidney care. The clinic also provides flexible hours for patients, enabling them to receive treatment that fits their schedule.
The experienced and expert team at South Brooklyn Health can work with you to navigate your kidney disease, help you feel better, and improve your quality of life.
For more information about Nephrology / Renal (Kidney) services or to schedule an appointment, please call 1-844-692-4692.