Nephrology

Overview of Nephrology at Northern Heart Hospital

At Northern Heart Hospital, our Nephrology Department is dedicated to providing expert care for kidney-related conditions. Our team of highly skilled nephrologists and healthcare professionals use the latest medical advancements to diagnose, manage, and treat a variety of kidney diseases. From early detection to advanced treatment options, we are committed to helping our patients achieve the best possible outcomes.

Experienced Nephrologists in the region at Northern Heart Hospital

Dr. Michelle Kao Pei Ching

MBChB (UK), MRCP (Edin), MD (UK), FRCP (Edin), CCST (Nephrology)(UK), AM

Our Expertise and Services

We offer a comprehensive range of nephrology services, including:

Acute Kidney Injury – Rapid intervention and critical care support for sudden kidney failure.
Chronic Kidney Disease – Personalised treatment plans to slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
Electrolyte Abnormalities – Expert care for maintaining the body’s essential balance.
Haematuria and Microalbuminuria/Proteinuria – Diagnosis and management of blood and protein abnormalities in urine.
Glomerulonephritis/Nephrotic Syndrome – Specialised treatment for kidney inflammation and protein loss disorders.
Renal Transplantation – Guidance and support for patients considering kidney transplantation.
Renal Biopsies – Advanced diagnostic procedure for kidney disease assessment.

With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a compassionate approach, our Nephrology Team is dedicated to providing exceptional care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Common Kidney Conditions We Treat

Kidney diseases can develop over time or arise suddenly due to other health conditions. Some of the most common issues we address include:

Chronic Kidney Disease – A progressive condition that can lead to kidney failure if untreated.
Kidney Stones – Hard mineral deposits that can cause severe pain and urinary issues.
Diabetic Nephropathy – Kidney damage caused by long-term diabetes.
Hypertensive Nephropathy – Kidney disease resulting from high blood pressure.
Polycystic Kidney Disease – A genetic disorder causing cyst formation in the kidneys.
Glomerulonephritis – Inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units, which can lead to kidney failure.

Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing complications, and our specialists are here to provide the best possible care.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Kidneys

Taking proactive steps to care for your kidneys can help prevent disease and improve overall health:

Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water supports kidney function and helps flush toxins from the body. Aim for at least 6-8 glasses per day, adjusting based on activity level and climate.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A kidney-friendly diet includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sodium, processed foods, and excessive sugars.
Control Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure
High blood sugar and hypertension can damage the kidneys over time. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and prescribed medications can help keep these conditions under control.
Exercise Regularly
Staying active helps maintain a healthy weight and supports cardiovascular and kidney health. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming are great low-impact options.
Limit NSAID Use
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can strain the kidneys when used frequently. Consult a doctor for safer alternatives if you need long-term pain management.
Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and heavy alcohol intake reduce kidney function and increase the risk of kidney disease. Quitting smoking and drinking in moderation can significantly improve kidney health.
Get Regular Kidney Check-Ups
If you have risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease, routine kidney function tests can help detect problems early and prevent complications.

Why Choose Northern Heart Hospital?

At Northern Heart Hospital, we go beyond treating kidney conditions. We focus on long-term kidney health and overall well-being. Patients choose us because of our:

Expert Nephrology Team – Specialists with extensive experience in kidney care.
State-of-the-Art Technology – Advanced diagnostic and treatment options for all stages of kidney disease.
Patient-Centred Approach – Personalised treatment plans to meet each patient’s needs.
Integrated Care – Collaboration with cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists for comprehensive healthcare.
Compassionate Support – A dedicated team that prioritises patient comfort, education, and long-term health management.

If you or a loved one are experiencing kidney-related concerns, we are here to help. Contact Northern Heart Hospital today to schedule an appointment with our nephrology specialists.