Nephrology focuses on diagnosing and treating kidney diseases. The kidneys filter waste, balance fluids, regulate blood pressure, and manage acute and chronic conditions.
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Overview and Definition
Your kidneys are the silent heroes of your body’s internal balance. Nephrology is the specialized branch of internal medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney functions and diseases. While often overlooked until a problem arises, your kidneys perform the vital task of filtering waste, balancing electrolytes, and regulating blood pressure. At Liv Hospital, our nephrology department combines clinical expertise with cutting-edge technology to provide international patients with world-class renal care.
Nephrology comes from the Greek word “nephros,” meaning kidney. It is a medical specialty that focuses on how the kidneys function and how they impact the rest of the body. Unlike urology, which focuses on the surgical aspects of the urinary tract and male reproductive organs, nephrology is primarily concerned with the medical management of kidney health.
The kidneys are responsible for more than just producing urine. They filter approximately 120 to 150 quarts of blood daily to produce about 1 to 2 quarts of urine. This process is essential for:
A nephrologist is a physician who has undergone extensive training in internal medicine followed by sub-specialization in kidney care. These experts are the primary “detectives” when it comes to systemic issues that originate in or affect the kidneys. Their role involves managing complex conditions that often overlap with other specialties, such as cardiology and endocrinology.
Diagnostic Interpretation: Analyzing blood and urine tests to determine the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
Blood Pressure Management: Treating “resistant hypertension” that does not respond to standard medications.
Dialysis Oversight: Managing hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis for patients with kidney failure.
Transplant Coordination: Working with surgeons to prepare patients for kidney transplantation and managing post-operative immunosuppression.
The scope of nephrology is broad, ranging from acute injuries to chronic, lifelong management. Because the kidneys are connected to the vascular system, many systemic diseases manifest as kidney problems.
Common conditions managed by our specialists include:
Most people are referred to a nephrologist by their primary care physician when routine lab work shows abnormal results. However, being proactive can prevent permanent renal damage. You should consider a consultation if you experience:
Early intervention is the most effective way to slow the progression of kidney disease. If you are traveling for medical care, Turkey has become a global hub for advanced nephrology due to the high volume of successful treatments and transplants.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
Liv Hospital’s Nephrology Department provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for kidney health, combining expertise from cardiology, nutrition, and transplant surgery. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technologies to deliver personalized care to our international guests.
We believe in a “patient-centered” model. For international patients, Liv Hospital offers coordinated care including pre-arrival consultations, comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing follow-up through telemedicine. Whether you require advanced management for chronic kidney disease or are seeking a second opinion for a complex renal condition, our clinic is equipped with the latest medical protocols used in top-tier global institutions.
Doctors use several tests to check kidney health, including urine tests, blood tests to measure GFR, kidney ultrasounds, and sometimes biopsies. Modern technology helps find kidney problems early, so treatment can start as soon as possible.
A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in kidney care. They help slow down the disease, protect your remaining kidney function, manage your blood pressure, and keep your body’s chemistry in balance.
A team of specialists works together to care for you. This includes kidney doctors, dietitians, surgeons who create dialysis access, and transplant surgeons. By working as a team, they make sure you get complete and coordinated care.
We believe in a partnership with our patients. Managing a chronic condition like kidney disease is a lifelong journey. Our team is dedicated to patient education, helping individuals understand their condition and actively participate in their treatment plan. We prioritize clear communication and accessible care, ensuring that every patient feels heard, supported, and confident in their medical team.
A nephrologist focuses on the kidney’s function and treats conditions such as kidney failure and hypertension. At the same time, a urologist is a surgeon who treats structural issues like kidney stones and bladder cancer.
You might be referred if your blood tests show elevated creatinine, if you have protein or blood in your urine, or if you have high blood pressure that is difficult to control with standard medications.
Yes, chronic kidney disease involves permanent damage to the kidney tissue. Still, with proper management, the progression of the disease can be slowed significantly, and function can be preserved for a long time.
No, not everyone with kidney disease will progress to kidney failure requiring dialysis; many people live with mild to moderate kidney disease for the rest of their lives without ever needing renal replacement therapy.
The most critical lifestyle changes are maintaining a healthy blood pressure, controlling blood sugar if you have diabetes, staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, and eating a diet low in sodium and processed foods.
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