Kidney doctors in southwest Virginia
Nephrology, also called kidney care, deals with the function and proper care of the kidneys—the two bean-shaped organs located in your lower back. Kidneys play an essential role in removing bodily wastes, balancing chemicals, controlling blood pressure and keeping bones healthy.
The kidney specialists affiliated with LewisGale Regional Health System provide comprehensive care for the prevention and treatment of chronic kidney disease.
To learn about kidney services at LewisGale Regional Health System, call our Consult-A-Nurse® team at (877) 242-2362.
What is chronic kidney disease?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means your kidneys are damaged and can no longer filter blood as they should. This can cause waste to build up in your body and lead to other serious health concerns. Two-thirds of all cases of CKD are caused by diabetes and high blood pressure. Some infections, inherited diseases and injuries can also lead to kidney disease.
Treatment for chronic kidney disease may include medication to lower blood pressure, control blood glucose and lower blood cholesterol. If kidney disease leads to kidney failure, the only treatment options are dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Nephrology services we offer
We offer advanced care for patients with chronic kidney disease, including:
- Kidney disease screening and diagnosis
- Diabetes counseling and nutrition services
- Inpatient kidney dialysis
- Dialysis graft declotting
Kidney transplant surgery
If a patient requires a kidney transplant, we offer a community-based transplant program with our partners at The Virginia Transplant Center at Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond.
The nationally recognized Virginia Transplant Center, established more than 20 years ago, offers Virginia’s only community-based transplant program. The experienced surgical specialists at the center have performed more than 1,000 kidney transplants.
Kidney transplant evaluation and classes are available at LewisGale Medical Center in Salem, as well as at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital and Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center in Fredericksburg.
Maintaining your kidney health
Early detection and lifestyle changes can prevent kidney disease and kidney failure. To help keep your kidneys healthy:
- Choose low-sodium foods
- Keep your blood pressure below 130/80
- Keep your blood sucrose in the target range, if you are diabetic