Nephrology

Which Diseases and Conditions Are Treated?

In our Nephrology Department, we treat many internal diseases that cause structural and functional disorders of the kidneys. The main diseases monitored and treated by our specialist physicians include:

• Acute and Chronic Kidney Failure: A condition where kidney functions deteriorate suddenly (acute) or gradually over months or years (chronic). Early kidney failure treatment can stop or slow down the progression of the disease.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): High blood pressure is both a cause and a result of kidney diseases. For resistant and uncontrolled blood pressure problems, an experienced hypertension doctor in Istanbul is a critical need for our patients.
• Nephritis (Kidney Inflammation): Non-microbial inflammatory conditions occurring in the filtering units (glomeruli) of the kidney.
• Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorders: Imbalances of vital minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus that should be present in the blood are treated.
• Urine Abnormalities: The underlying causes of blood in the urine (hematuria) or protein/albumin in the urine (proteinuria) are investigated. In particular, protein leakage in urine treatment is of great importance to prevent permanent kidney damage.
• Kidney Cysts: Genetically transmitted cysts, such as polycystic kidney disease, or acquired cysts are monitored.

Diagnostic Methods

Accurate diagnosis of kidney diseases is the first step to successful treatment. At the BHT CLINIC Nephrology Department, modern diagnostic methods are utilized after thoroughly listening to our patients' complaints and medical history. Blood tests measure the kidneys' filtering capacity (creatinine, urea, GFR values) and mineral ratios in the blood.

Urine tests are one of the cornerstones of nephrological diagnosis. In addition to a simple full urine test, our patients may be asked for 24-hour urine collections when necessary to calculate the exact amount of protein leakage or excreted minerals. Furthermore, radiological imaging methods such as ultrasonography and color Doppler ultrasonography are used to examine the size, structure, and blood supply of the kidneys. In complex cases where a definitive diagnosis cannot be made, a kidney biopsy procedure may be planned.

Treatment Methods and Applications

Treatments applied in our Nephrology Department are personalized according to the type and stage of the disease and the general health status of the patient. The basic approach in early-stage kidney diseases is lifestyle changes and medication treatments aimed at protecting kidney functions. Keeping blood pressure at ideal levels, regulating blood sugar, restricting salt consumption, and creating appropriate diet programs are integral parts of the treatment.

Dialysis treatments (hemodialysis) are planned and meticulously monitored for our patients with advanced-stage kidney failure. For our patients looking for a well-equipped dialysis center in Istanbul, comfortable and safe dialysis services are provided in our hospital. In addition, our department works in multidisciplinary harmony with the Endocrinology Department for diabetes-related kidney damage, the Cardiology Department for heart failure-related problems, and the Urology Department for conditions requiring surgery.

Technology and Team

BHT CLINIC İstanbul Tema Hastanesi holds JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation and provides services at international patient safety standards. Our Nephrology Department works with an expert physician staff who follow the current medical literature. As one of the most accurate addresses for a reliable nephrologist in Istanbul, we are always by your side with our friendly healthcare staff.

Our hospital's advanced laboratory infrastructure ensures that blood and urine tests are concluded in the fastest and most accurate way. High-resolution ultrasonography devices in our imaging center allow the detection of even the slightest changes in the kidney structure. Our dialysis units are specially designed for our patients to feel comfortable during their treatment.

When Should You Visit?

Although kidney diseases usually progress silently, our body gives warning signals in some cases. If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, it is of great importance for your health to consult a nephrologist without delay:

• Noticeable swelling (edema) under the eyes, in the hands, feet, and legs
• Darkening of urine color, passing tea or cola-colored urine
• Excessive foaming in the urine (may be a sign of protein leakage)
• High blood pressure that cannot be lowered despite medication
• The need to urinate frequently at night
• A significant decrease in the amount of urine
• Unexplained constant fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite
• Dull or severe pain in the kidney areas (on both sides of the lower back)

Appointment and Consultation Process

Do not postpone your kidney health. With the awareness that early diagnosis saves lives and preserves the quality of life, you can apply to our department when your complaints arise or for your routine check-ups. During our examination process, our doctor will listen to your complaints, perform your physical examination, and plan the necessary tests.

Getting an appointment from our hospital's nephrology department is extremely easy. You can call our 24/7 call center at 0850 811 34 00 or quickly complete your transaction via our online appointment page. You can plan your appointment for the most suitable time for you by reviewing our physicians' profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Nephrology and Urology?

Nephrology deals with internal (treated with medical drugs) diseases of the kidneys; conditions such as kidney failure, hypertension, and protein leakage are the specialty of this department. Urology is a surgical branch that deals with diseases of the kidneys, urinary tract, and reproductive system that require surgical intervention (kidney stones, tumors, prostate diseases, etc.).

What are the symptoms of kidney failure?

There may be no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. In later stages, weakness, quick fatigue, swelling (edema) in the legs and around the eyes, decreased urine output, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and high blood pressure are among the most common symptoms.

Is protein leakage in urine dangerous?

Yes, protein leakage in the urine (proteinuria) can be an early sign that the filtering function of the kidneys is beginning to deteriorate and of kidney damage. If the underlying cause is not found and treated, it can lead to chronic kidney failure over time. It must be evaluated by a nephrologist.

How does hypertension affect the kidneys?

Uncontrolled high blood pressure damages the thin vessels feeding the kidneys, impairing their filtering function over time and causing chronic kidney failure. At the same time, kidney diseases also lead to an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, blood pressure control is very critical for kidney health.

What should I pay attention to in order to protect my kidney health?

To protect your kidneys, you should consume an adequate amount of water daily (average 2-2.5 liters), reduce salt intake, maintain your ideal weight, exercise regularly, and avoid using painkillers unconsciously without a doctor's recommendation.