Nephrology

Watson Clinic's board-certified nephrologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disorders.

 

The kidneys have several crucial functions, such as filtering our blood of toxins and removing waste from our bodies, balancing our fluids, and regulating our blood pressure and red blood cell production. When left untreated, non-functioning or diseased kidneys can lead to death within a matter of days.

 

There are several preventative steps you can take that could assist you in avoiding various disorders, such as drinking plenty of water to clean your body of toxins, keeping track of your blood pressure, and exercising regularly.

Early indicators of chronic kidney disease include swollen feet and ankles, poor stamina and sleep habits, dry and itchy skin, muscle cramping, poor concentration and appetite. 

 

Screenings for Chronic Kidney Disease involve a detailed health history and risk assessment, blood pressure readings, and blood and urine testing. If kidney failure does occur, our nephrology team provides comprehensive guidance through each stage of prevention and treatment, as well as hassle-free referrals when additional care is needed such as hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or kidney transplantation procedures.

Nephrologists Also Treat High Blood Pressure.
Watson Clinic’s kidney specialists are also experts in the treatment of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is the most common medical condition in the United States and is also a leading risk factor for heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.  

One way to avoid or slow the progression of kidney disease is to keep your high blood pressure (hypertension) under control. Watson Clinic’s nephrologists have been specially trained to determine the root causes of hypertension, to offer treatments that help lower blood pressure to the average goal levels of <140/90 mmHg, and to continuously monitor for any kidney injury resulting from your condition. 

High blood pressure often does not have symptoms - this is why it’s sometimes called “the silent killer.” In order to maintain a healthy life, it’s crucial that you have it checked regularly and keep it under control. Diet, age and genetic factors all play a role in determining our blood pressure. In addition, there are a small group of patients who have other conditions that lead to high blood pressure such as kidney damage, blockage to the blood flow in the kidney or excessive stress hormones. Our nephrology group can help evaluate you for any of these conditions.  

 

Kidney Transplants & Home Dialysis
Close to 800,000 people in the United States struggle with end-stage kidney failure. These patients are faced with two options if they want to survive: dependence on routine dialysis therapy or a kidney transplant.

 

Watson Clinic has long set the standard in both kidney transplantation and convenient home-based dialysis care.

 

Historically, Watson Clinic Nephrology patients are 2½ times more likely to receive a kidney transplant when compared to the state average. The department has also doubled the percentage of their patients who can undergo dialysis from the comfort and convenience of their own home. Click here for more information on these services.

 

Education Classes For Eligible Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
For patients who have been diagnosed with stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease, the department offers a series of classes designed to help patients gain a better understanding of their disease and to make the best decisions in their management of it.

These one-on-one classes shed light on a variety of topics including proper diet, treatment options including kidney transplantation and home dialysis, and the daily ins-and-outs of living successfully with the disease.

Classes are available through physician referral only. For additional information and to find out if you’re a candidate for their classes, call 863-680-7190.

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease Brochure

 

 

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Please call 863-680-7190 for additional information.