Nephrology

Cayuga Nephrology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, hypertension, acid-base and electrolytes disorders.

About

Cayuga Nephrology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, hypertension, acid-base and electrolytes disorders. Our experienced nephrologists are dedicated to providing patient-centered, evidence-based nephrology services in our community by teaming with patients, primary care physicians and other specialists.

Kidneys play an important role in your body because they:

  • Remove wastes and extra fluid, filtering about 200 quarts of blood each day.
  • Control blood pressure
  • Make red blood cells
  • Keep bones healthy by making an active form of vitamin D
  • Control pH levels as they maintain a healthy balance of chemicals that control acid levels

CKD describes the gradual loss of kidney function. It means that the kidney’s filtering function is diminished, as defined by an increased serum creatinine level from a blood test, and/or an abnormal presence of protein and blood in the urine via a urine test.

CKD has five defined stages, from mild damage in Stage 1 to significant loss of kidney function in Stage 5. Unfortunately, in its early stages, CKD is most frequently without symptoms, and those who are affected are unaware they have the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression of the disease.

Late stages of CKD can be associated with symptoms that are a result of the accumulation of waste products, because of the reduced filter and clearing function of the kidneys. Symptoms are non-specific and can be attributed to many things:

  • fatigue
  • sleep disturbances
  • loss of appetite
  • metallic taste
  • unintentional weight loss
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • itching
  • swelling in hands and / or feet.

These symptoms can be controlled with therapies directed toward the replacement of kidney function, like dialysis and transplantation.

The most common causes of CKD are diabetes and hypertension. Other important causes can be:

  • Genetic disorders like autosomal polycystic kidney disease
  • Chronic, untreated urinary tract obstruction
  • Prolonged use (months and years) of medications like Aleve, Naproxen, Ibuprofen, Motrin and other related medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus, as well as a different form of vasculitis.

Acute Kidney Disease is a sudden decrease in kidney function and is often reversible. It occurs mainly in hospitalized patients. We also provide consultative services for patients admitted to Cayuga Medical Center.

The kidneys’ jobs are not only to clear out waste products. They also help maintain acid – base and electrolytes balances. Abnormalities that can be identified, diagnosed and treated, that are found via blood tests, include:

  • low sodium concentration (hyponatremia)
  • low potassium concentration (hypokalemia)
  • high potassium concentration (hyperkalemia)
  • low magnesium concentration (hypomagnesemia)
  • increased acidity (academia)

Hypertension is the increase of blood pressure in blood vessels, and, left untreated, can lead to heart failure, heart attack, abnormal heart rate (atrial fibrillation), strokes and kidney failure. Much of the time, hypertension can be easily managed with medications. In rare occasions, hypertension is difficult to control. We can help identify the cause and determine a successful treatment plan for uncontrolled hypertension.

Cayuga Health Nephrologist checking in with patient

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what our patients are saying

“The staff and accommodations at Cayuga Birthplace are amazing!!! This is what it I imagine it would feel like to be a celebrity getting VIP treatment. I wish I could stay longer – even the food options are 5 Star! The amenities are great. Everything is clean and designed beautifully. Not a single complaint, only praises!”

Alina, Cayuga Birth Place

“I have had many occasions visiting CMC for myself and family. We have never had a bad experience there at all. Last October I had surgery and the nurses were amazing especially my night nurse. Thank you to all CMC staff for doing what you do every day with a smile.”

Karen, Surgical Services

“I have been a Hemo dialysis patient for almost Five years. Prior to dialysis and during dialysis I have had several trips to the ER, due to other health issues & was admitted to CMC more than a few times. Each and every time I’ve been there, whether in patient or out, I have been treated with respect, professionalism, and efficiency. I give this hospital 2 thumbs up!! Thank you CMC for taking care of me all these years!!”

Monique, Cayuga Cancer Center

“I have to say the last couple visits that I’ve had here have been wonderful. About a month ago I had an EGD and the staff were amazing! Explained everything in detail and made me feel at ease. I was very nervous and the nurse I had was very comforting. Tonight we had to take my son to the emergency room and they were awesome with him! We got right in. “

Samantha, Emergency Department
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