Understanding Your Kidney Health

Whether you are newly diagnosed or managing long-term kidney disease, this page provides information to help you better understand your condition, treatment options, and how to stay healthy over time.

Your care is supported by a connected team working together to guide you through each stage of kidney care.

What is Nephrology?

Nephrology is the medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the kidneys and blood pressure. Nephrologists are physicians who complete additional training in kidney disease, allowing them to provide specialized care for a wide range of conditions.

At Northwest Renal Clinic, our team provides evaluation and treatment for:

  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)

  • Blood or protein in the urine

  • Kidney infections and inflammation

  • Kidney stones and cystic diseases

Understanding Kidney Disease

Your kidneys play an important role in keeping your body healthy. They:

  • Remove waste and excess fluid from the blood

  • Help regulate blood pressure

  • Maintain proper balance of minerals and electrolytes

  • Produce hormones that support red blood cell production

When kidney function declines, it can impact multiple systems in the body. Early detection and ongoing management are important to slowing disease progression and maintaining overall health.

Treatment and Care Options

Depending on your condition and stage of kidney disease, treatment may include:

  • Medication to manage blood pressure and kidney function

  • Monitoring and lab testing

  • Dietary and lifestyle modifications

  • Dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis)

  • Kidney transplant evaluation and coordination

Your care plan will be tailored to your individual needs and coordinated across our care team.

Living With Kidney Disease

Managing kidney disease is a long-term process, and education plays a key role in maintaining your health.

Nutrition and Diet

Diet is an important part of kidney care. Depending on your condition, you may need to adjust:

  • Protein intake

  • Sodium

  • Potassium

  • Phosphorus

  • Fluid intake

Your provider will help guide you based on your specific needs.

Managing Anemia

Kidney disease can lead to anemia, a condition where the body does not have enough red blood cells.

This may cause:

  • Fatigue

  • Shortness of breath

  • Dizziness

  • Difficulty sleeping

Your kidneys normally produce a hormone that helps create red blood cells. When kidney function declines, this process can be affected. Treatment may include medications or other therapies to help manage symptoms.

Have Questions About Your Kidney Health?

Our care team is here to help you better understand your condition and your next steps.

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