Kidney Disease Specialist

Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center Our Services Kidney Disease

Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center

Urologists located in Hemet, CA

Researchers estimate that more than 37 million Americans are living with kidney disease. Though there’s no cure, with early diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to prevent it from getting worse. At Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center, urologists Girdhari Purohit, MD, FACS, James Hendricks, MD, FACS, and the team boast years of experience treating all types of kidney disease. To make an appointment at the practice in Hemet, California, call the office or click the online booking tool today.

Kidney Disease Q & A

What is kidney disease?

Kidney disease refers to several conditions that affect your kidneys’ ability to properly filter your blood. Your kidneys are two lima-bean-shaped organs located in the lower back. Aside from cleaning your blood, they help control your blood pressure and affect vitamin D metabolism.

If your kidneys fail to function normally, toxins can build up in your bloodstream, increasing the risk of more serious health problems. When left untreated, kidney disease leads to kidney failure and premature death.

What are the types of kidney disease?

Kidney disease falls into two distinct categories:

Acute kidney disease

Acute kidney disease occurs suddenly with no warning. Common causes of acute kidney disease include direct damage to the kidneys, poor blood flow to the kidneys, or urine backed up in the kidneys. Certain autoimmune diseases can also contribute.

Chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease occurs when your kidneys fail to function normally for three months or longer. Some of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease include untreated diabetes and high blood pressure. Other contributing factors include viral infections, inflammation, and polycystic kidney disease.

What are the symptoms of kidney disease?

Common symptoms of kidney disease include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Trouble thinking
  • Itching that won’t stop
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Swelling in the feet and ankles

As kidney disease progresses, you might also experience muscle twitches or cramps and chest pain.

How is kidney disease diagnosed?

To diagnose kidney disease, the team at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center conducts a physical exam and asks about your symptoms. Then, they order several laboratory tests, including urinalysis, a blood panel, and, if necessary, a kidney biopsy. A biopsy removes a piece of tissue from your kidney and sends it to a lab for additional testing.

How is kidney disease treated?

Treatment of kidney disease depends on your overall health, age, and the severity of your symptoms. Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to ease uncomfortable symptoms and to prevent the condition from worsening. Your provider might recommend losing weight, quitting smoking, and eating a more nutritious diet.

If you have a severe case of kidney disease, dialysis or a kidney transplant might be necessary. Dialysis uses a special machine to perform the function of your kidneys, while a kidney transplant replaces your damaged kidney with another healthy one. 

To receive treatment for kidney disease, make an appointment at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.

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