What is a kidney doctor and what do they do?

What Is a Kidney Doctor?

A kidney doctor, also called a nephrologist, is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the kidneys.

Kidneys play a critical role in the body. They filter waste from the blood, control blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and help regulate fluids and hormones. When the kidneys are not working properly, it can affect many other parts of the body.

A kidney doctor has advanced training in internal medicine and nephrology and focuses on identifying and managing conditions that affect kidney health.

What Does a Kidney Doctor Do?

A kidney doctor evaluates and treats many conditions related to kidney function, including:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

• High blood pressure

• Protein in the urine

• Blood in the urine

• Kidney stones

• Electrolyte imbalances

• Swelling or fluid retention

• Complications from diabetes affecting the kidneys

Kidney doctors also help patients prevent kidney disease from progressing, manage medications safely, and reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease.

When Should You See a Kidney Doctor?

You may be referred to a kidney doctor if you have:

• Decreased kidney function (low GFR)

• Protein or blood in the urine

• Difficult-to-control high blood pressure

• Kidney disease related to diabetes

• Abnormal electrolyte levels

• Recurrent kidney stones

Seeing a kidney specialist early can help slow or prevent kidney damage and improve long-term health outcomes.

Kidney Care in Sherwood and the Portland Area

At Optima Kidney Care, Dr. Marilia Campos provides specialized care for patients with kidney disease, high blood pressure, and metabolic health concerns. The clinic focuses on early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment plans to help patients protect kidney and cardiovascular health.

Patients can be seen in person in Sherwood, Oregon, or through telemedicine across Oregon and Washington.