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Why choose Geisinger for kidney disease care?

Your kidneys have a lot of jobs. They filter waste, regulate blood pressure, maintain your body’s supply of red blood cells and help keep your bones healthy. When kidney disease interferes with how well your kidneys function, getting the right care makes all the difference.

That’s where our nephrologists and other specialists come in. Whether you have kidney stones or need help managing a complex kidney disease, you’ll have treatment backed by years of specialized training and experience.

And to make sure you always get the right level of care, we’ve built a network of specialty kidney clinics. Each focuses on a specific condition or risk factor, so your care team always works as hard for you as your kidneys do for your body.

Treatments and services we offer

Conditions we treat

Related specialties

Our specialty kidney clinics

Depending on the type and stage of your kidney disease, your doctor may refer you to one of these specialty clinics for focused, individualized care.

General nephrology clinic

This nephrology team specializes in diagnosing and treating a variety of kidney conditions. No matter what type of treatment you need, there’s an established approach that’s right for you. 

Hypertension clinic

Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure, is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. By managing it through lifestyle changes or medication, your care team can protect your kidneys and help you feel your best.

Polycystic kidney disease clinic

Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic condition in which clusters of cysts form inside the kidneys. At the polycystic kidney disease clinic, your specialists may help you with:

  • Screening for complications
  • Medications to help manage symptoms
  • Steps you can take to delay the onset or progression of kidney disease
  • Early evaluation and getting a referral for a kidney transplant

Renal genetics clinic

Your family history plays a role in your kidney disease risk. At the renal genetics clinic, a genetic counselor will review your medical and family history and discuss:

  • Your likelihood of a kidney disease diagnosis
  • Types of testing available
  • Pros and cons of genetic testing
  • Ways to reduce risk
  • Support resources

If you opt for a genetic test, your genetic counselor will work with you to create a customized care plan. Early detection means more treatment options — and a better chance of protecting your kidney health.

Weight management clinic

Extra weight can make your kidneys work harder. With compassionate support and advanced weight management programs, your specialists can help you reach a healthier weight so your kidneys have a chance to recover.

FAQs

What are the symptoms of kidney disease?

Kidney disease may not show any symptoms in its early stages. When you do notice symptoms, they can vary and may include:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Swelling of feet or ankles
  • Itchy skin
  • Increased urination
  • High blood pressure that’s hard to control
  • Foam or blood in your urine
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Muscle cramps or twitching

These symptoms can also be a sign of non-kidney conditions. If you’re having symptoms, talk to your doctor to find out what might be causing them. 

 

What causes kidney disease?

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing kidney disease, including:

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Diabetes
  • Being overweight
  • Kidney infections or injury
  • Abnormal kidney structure
  • Certain autoimmune diseases
  • Family history of kidney diseases
  • A personal history of kidney cancer
  • Overuse of certain pain relievers
  • Smoking
  • Being of Asian, African American or Native American descent
  • Being over 60 years old

How do doctors diagnose kidney disease?

Your kidney specialists may use some diagnostic tools, including:

  • Imaging tests, like an X-ray, CT scan or ultrasound.
  • Blood and urine tests to detect elevated levels of substances like creatinine, urea or albumin, which may signal kidney problems.
  • Biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample then examining it with a microscope to look for abnormal kidney cells.

Kidney disease care at Geisinger 

Here, you’ll have a team dedicated to compassionate, effective kidney disease treatment. They offer:

  • Expertise you can count on: Your nephrologists and specialists bring years of focused experience to your care — so whether you have kidney stones or a complex condition, you're in good hands.
  • Care where you live: Get leading-edge treatment options, backed by the expertise of a nationally recognized health system at a convenient location in central or northeastern Pennsylvania. 
  • A genetic program to catch and prevent conditions: The MyCode® Community Health Initiative helps detect the earliest signs of kidney disease so you can start treatment and prevention right away.