What are the most common types of conditions that nephrologists treat?
Nephrologists commonly address glomerulonephritis, an inflammation affecting the kidney's filtering units, and polycystic kidney disease, characterised by numerous cysts in the kidneys. They also manage hypertension-related kidney damage, as high blood pressure can severely impact kidney health.
What advancements or technologies are utilised by nephrologists?
Nephrologists use technologies such as automated peritoneal dialysis machines for at-home treatments and bioartificial kidneys that replicate natural kidney functions. They also use telemedicine to monitor patients remotely, ensuring timely medical care for patients with chronic kidney disease.
What question should you ask a nephrologist?
Inquire about the symptoms of your kidney condition and how to manage them. Learn what symptoms to expect in case of disease progression or complications, how to ease any discomfort that might be caused, and what type of medical help options you can get. These questions can help you get a better understanding of your treatment journey.
How does a nephrologist decide on a treatment plan?
To ensure effective treatment, a nephrologist closely monitors the development of kidney disease through regular diagnostic tests and consultations with the patient. They also consider genetic factors, possible complications, and how the patient responded to past treatments. Based on all these factors, a nephrologist creates a personalised treatment plan.
What does a nephrologist do?
A Nephrologist specialises in diagnosing and managing kidney diseases, such as glomerulonephritis and polycystic kidney disease. They prescribe treatments, manage dialysis, and monitor electrolyte levels. They work closely with patients and other specialists to ensure complete kidney care of patients with improved quality of life.
What is the role of a neurologist in a patient's treatment journey?
Neurologists in Kollam at Aster PMF Hospital conduct various steps to ensure patients' comprehensive care. They diagnose critical nervous system illnesses and provide the best medical treatments, providing comprehensive care to patients. They also refer patients to neurosurgeons in case surgical treatment is required.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a neurologist?
Patients must prepare by providing complete details and documents to the medical staff, a list of complete current medications and symptoms, wearing comfortable clothes, and penning down critical medical events like severe conditions that can affect the diagnosis or treatment options.
When should I consider seeing a neurologist?
If you’re experiencing symptoms like no taste or nose senses, vision problems, numbness, seizures, memory disturbances, vertigo, difficulty swallowing or chewing, burning in any body part, or loss of consciousness, you should consider seeing a neurologist.
What documents should I carry on my first visit to a neurologist?
You are advised to carry your medical reports and relevant past visit documents, referral letters from other physicians, a list of major issues you have related to the treatment plan, and other documents, including previous test reports and imaging test results that impact your overall health.
What are the most common types of conditions that neurologists treat?
Neurologists diagnose and treat diseases like brain tumours, tremors, sleep disorders, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, neck and back pain, multiple sclerosis, facial pain syndromes, and epilepsy. These conditions may even require surgical treatment, which is prescribed by neurologists to be performed by neurosurgeons.