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Your Nephrology Experts

Coachella Valley Nephrology is committed to compassionate, supportive care. The kidney health of every patient we see is important to us, and we want the care we provide to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We’re experts in kidney health, the treatment of kidney diseases, blood pressure management, and electrolyte disorders. Also, we serve as the medical directors and take care of patients at the Kidney Institutes.

Nephrologist = Kidney Specialist

It’s a common question we get—what is nephrology? It’s an internal medicine specialty focused on the functions of the kidneys. Doctors who specialize in nephrology—like our team here at Coachella Valley Nephrology—are experts in kidney health, the treatment of kidney diseases, blood pressure management, and electrolyte disorders. A nephrologist is different from a urologist who specializes in the urinary tract system including the bladder, prostate, and tumors of the kidneys.

Why Your Kidneys Are Vital

Kidneys cleanse the blood of toxins. When they don't work properly, those toxins, plus excess fluids, can build up in the body. As a result, a person experiencing kidney failure may have high blood pressure, headaches that don't seem to go away, swelling in certain areas of their body, and feel extremely tired. Kidneys perform vital functions. These functions include:

  • Removal of waste products and drugs from the body
  • Regulating the body’s salt, potassium, and acid content
  • Releasing hormones that regulate blood pressure
  • Producing hormones that promote strong, healthy bones
  • Controlling the production of red blood cells

When Should You See a Nephrologist?

Most people don't go to a nephrologist without a referral from their primary care doctor. Typically, seeing anephrologist means that you have kidney-related symptoms from an unknown cause or that you have health issues only a renal specialist knows how to treat. When may your primary care provider refer you to a nephrologist? If you have symptoms that indicate a possible problem with your kidneys, or for any of the following reasons:

  • A large amount of blood or protein is found in your urine.
  • You have recurring kidney stones.
  • You have high blood pressure that isn't improving even though you're taking medication.
  • You have a medical condition that increases your risk of kidney problems (such as diabetes or a heart condition).

Conditions a Nephrologist Treats

Kidneys perform vital functions, and a nephrologist can treat you for conditions such as:

  • Blood or Protein In Your Urine
  • Recurrent Kidney Stones
  • Chronic Kidney Disease
  • Kidney Failure
  • Electrolyte and Mineral Imbalances
  • Kidney Transplant Follow-Up Care

What Procedures a Nephrologist Performs

Nephrologists help detect and diagnose kidney problems by performing blood and urine tests, imaging testing (i.e., ultrasounds, CT scans, and X-rays), and biopsies. They're also involved in patient care and treatment, including hemodialysis, and are a vital member of a kidney transplant team.

Our Treatment Team

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What Our Patients Say

The institute is very good in the care and attention they give. Blessings to the nurses and technicians.
Norma Valladares
New Patient Resources

New Patient Resources

Fill out our forms before your visit. That way, we’re ready to begin your care when you arrive.

Nutrition

Nutrition

Our nutritionists can help you develop a kidney- friendly diet. Plans are tailored to each patient.

Travel

Travel

Home dialysis options have made it possible for patients to travel safely and continue treatment.

We’re Here for You.

Our goal is to build a relationship with each patient and develop individual treatment plans. Let’s get in touch today.