Division of Nephrology & Hypertension
The Division of Nephrology & Hypertension provides medical center kidney care, combining clinical expertise, research and education to support kidney health.
Kidney Care
Also known as Nephrology
Specialized kidney care for chronic and complex kidney conditions
Kidney Care Focused on Long-Term Health
Kidney care, also called nephrology, focuses on protecting kidney function and managing conditions that affect how the kidneys work. Kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste from the blood, balancing fluids and electrolytes, and helping control blood pressure.
Care at Lahey Clinic supports people at all stages of kidney disease, from early to late-stage kidney disease. Whether you are newly diagnosed or managing a long-term condition, care is designed to support daily health and long-term well-being.
What Is Nephrology?
Nephrology is the medical specialty focused on kidney health. A nephrologist is a kidney specialist who diagnoses and treats kidney diseases, manages chronic conditions and helps prevent further kidney damage.
You may benefit from a nephrology appointment if you have changes in kidney function, difficulty controlling your blood pressure, abnormal lab results or symptoms linked to kidney disease. Kidney care may also be part of treatment for other conditions that affect overall health.
Kidney Conditions and Services
Care is tailored to specific kidney-related needs and may include assessment, monitoring and treatment for:
- High blood pressure: we have a team of high blood pressure specialists that specialize in the evaluation and management of difficult to control blood pressure.
- Kidney disease care, including treatment and comprehensive management aimed at minimizing the complications and slowing the progression to more severe disease
- Kidney stone care, including prevention and treatment.
- Kidney failure, including advanced care planning and ongoing management. We also work closely with the palliative care team to help with symptom management and when needed, provide compassionate end-of-life care.
- Dialysis, when kidney function is significantly reduced.
More About Kidney Care
How to Access Kidney Care
Kidney care often begins with a referral from a primary care provider or another specialist. This helps ensure the right tests and information are available before your visit.
Appointments may include:
- A review of symptoms and medical history.
- Blood and urine testing.
- Imaging or other diagnostic studies.
If you are wondering when to see a kidney specialist, signs such as changes in kidney function, ongoing high blood pressure or abnormal lab results may prompt a referral. We can help you schedule your nephrology appointment and understand your next steps.
