What is the name of a kidney doctor?

A kidney doctor is called a nephrologist. Nephrologists are physicians who specialize in kidney health, including chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, high blood pressure that affects the kidneys, dialysis, and kidney transplant care. A primary care provider may refer you to a nephrologist when kidney test results are abnormal, kidney symptoms are present, or you have risk factors for kidney disease.

The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation (TLHF) provides free education, worksheets, community support, and resource connections for people affected by liver and kidney conditions. We are not a medical provider, so please speak with your healthcare provider for personal medical advice, testing, diagnosis, or treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Learn what nephrologists do, when kidney symptoms need attention, and why kidney and liver health are closely connected. Use these answers as a starting point for a conversation with your healthcare provider.

What symptoms can be signs of kidney problems?

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice swelling in your feet, ankles, or around your eyes; foamy, bloody, or dark urine; urinating more or less often than usual, especially at night; or ongoing tiredness, itching, or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can have many causes, so an evaluation is important.

When is kidney trouble an emergency?

Seek emergency care for little or no urine; severe pain in your side or back with fever; sudden swelling with shortness of breath; or sudden confusion. If you are unsure whether symptoms are urgent, contact a healthcare professional or call 911 for a life-threatening emergency.

How are liver and kidney health connected?

Liver and kidney health affect one another in important ways. Advanced liver disease can lead to kidney failure through hepatorenal syndrome. Fatty liver disease and kidney disease share risk factors such as diabetes and obesity, while hepatitis B and hepatitis C can affect the kidneys. Some people may need a combined liver-kidney transplant. Supporting healthy blood sugar, blood pressure, weight, and alcohol habits can benefit both organs.

How can TLHF help me?

TLHF does not sell products, provide medical services, or make medical referrals. We offer free educational guides and worksheets on liver and kidney conditions, community support through our chapter network, and resource connections through our Social Work department. If you need help finding a specialist, ask your primary care provider or explore trusted tools from organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation.

What is a kidney doctor called?

A kidney doctor is called a nephrologist. A nephrologist is a physician with specialized training in diagnosing and managing kidney conditions. They may care for people with chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, kidney failure, difficult-to-control high blood pressure, electrolyte concerns, dialysis needs, or kidney transplant needs.

What does a nephrologist do?

A nephrologist reviews kidney function, urine and blood test results, symptoms, medicines, and health history. They help manage conditions that can harm the kidneys, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and may coordinate care related to dialysis or transplant. Depending on your needs, your primary care provider may remain an important part of your care team.

When should I ask about seeing a nephrologist?

Talk with your healthcare provider if you have abnormal kidney tests, ongoing changes in urination, swelling, kidney stones that keep returning, or a known kidney condition. You may also benefit from discussing kidney testing or specialist care if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease.

What tests check kidney health?

Two common tests can help identify kidney disease: a blood test that estimates kidney filtration, called eGFR, and a urine test that checks for albumin, called UACR. Early kidney disease often has no symptoms, so people with risk factors should ask their provider whether they need these tests every year, even when they feel well.

Take the next step in understanding kidney health

Explore free, practical resources from The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation for your specific kidney or liver health concern. If you have kidney disease risk factors, ask your healthcare provider about yearly kidney testing with eGFR and UACR.

Your support also helps TLHF continue providing education, community connection, and hope to individuals and families in Henderson, Nevada, and beyond.