A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in the kidneys and the conditions that affect them.

They diagnose and treat:

• Chronic kidney disease
• Kidney failure
• High blood pressure related to kidney problems
• Protein or blood in the urine
• Electrolyte and fluid imbalances
• Complications requiring dialysis

Nephrologists usually treat kidney problems with medicines, dietary guidance, and dialysis care. A urologist, by contrast, focuses more on urinary-tract problems that may require procedures or surgery.