Nephrology 101: Understanding Kidney Care

By Buffalo Medical Group | May 1 2026 | Uncategorized

By Kiran Kandukurti, M.D. – Buffalo Medical Group Nephrology 

Our kidneys may be small, but they play a massive role in keeping our bodies healthy. Nephrology is the medical specialty dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the kidneys—and nephrologists are the physicians who specialize in this essential area of care. Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed with a kidney condition or are simply curious about how kidney health fits into overall wellness, here’s a helpful Nephrology 101 overview. 

What Does a Nephrologist Do? 

A nephrologist focuses on the health and function of the kidneys. Kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, regulating electrolytes, helping control blood pressure, and supporting red blood cell production and bone health. Nephrologists evaluate kidney function through blood tests, urine studies, imaging, and sometimes kidney biopsies. They often work closely with primary care providers and other specialists to help manage complex, chronic conditions. 

Common Conditions Treated in Nephrology 

Nephrologists treat a wide range of kidney-related conditions. One of the most common is chronic kidney disease (CKD), a gradual loss of kidney function often linked to diabetes or high blood pressure. Acute kidney injury (AKI), which is a sudden decline in kidney function due to illness, dehydration, or medications, is another frequent concern. 

Other conditions include glomerular diseases (which affect the kidney’s filtering units), electrolyte disorders (such as abnormal sodium or potassium levels), kidney stones, and polycystic kidney disease, a genetic condition. Nephrologists also manage dialysis care and help evaluate patients for kidney transplantation when advanced kidney failure occurs. 

Who Should See a Nephrologist? 

You may be referred to a nephrologist if blood or urine tests show reduced kidney function, persistent protein or blood in the urine, or electrolyte abnormalities. People with long-standing diabetes or high blood pressure—two leading causes of kidney disease—often benefit from nephrology care, especially if kidney function starts to decline. 

Other reasons to see a nephrologist include recurrent kidney stones, inherited kidney disorders, difficult-to-control blood pressure, or swelling related to kidney problems. Early referral is important; seeing a nephrologist sooner can sometimes slow disease progression and prevent complications. 

Why Kidney Health Matters 

Kidney disease often develops silently, with few symptoms until it becomes advanced. Understanding nephrology and knowing when to seek specialty care can make a meaningful difference in long-term health. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment, nephrology plays a vital role in helping patients maintain both kidney function and overall quality of life. 

Kiran Kandukurti, M.D. is a board-certified nephrologist and is accepting new patients. He sees patients at Buffalo Medical Group, 325 Essjay Road, Williamsville and 6950 South Transit Road, Lockport. Call 716-656-4878 to schedule an appointment.