Nephrology and Kidney Care

Ochsner Health provides kidney care for patients with chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, high blood pressure and other kidney conditions. Ochsner offers testing, treatment, dialysis and access to kidney transplant care.

Why choose Ochsner Health for kidney care?

Ochsner Health provides care for kidney conditions at every stage, from early kidney disease to kidney failure. Our nephrologists work with specialists across Ochsner to diagnose kidney problems, slow the progression of kidney disease and help patients manage their long-term kidney health.

For patients who need advanced care, Ochsner offers dialysis, interventional nephrology and access to kidney transplant services. Our kidney care team also include nurses, dietitians, social workers and other specialists who support patients throughout treatment.

Kidney disease can affect many parts of your health. Ochsner nephrologists work with specialists in cardiology, endocrinology, primary care, transplant and urology to coordinate your care.

Meet our kidney care team

Our nephrologists diagnose and treat kidney disease, high blood pressure and other conditions that affect kidney function.

Meet the Team

Kidney transplant

For patients with advanced kidney disease, Ochsner provides evaluation, transplant surgery and lifelong care through the Ochsner Transplant Institute.

Learn About Kidney Transplant

Dialysis care

Ochsner offers several types of dialysis including in-center and at-home options, based on each patient’s needs.

What kidney conditions and treatments does Ochsner offer?

What kidney conditions does Ochsner treat?

Chronic kidney disease: Kidney disease that makes it harder for your kidneys to filter waste from your blood.
Acute kidney injury: A sudden decrease in kidney function that can happen because of illness, injury or certain medications.
Kidney failure: Advanced kidney disease that may require dialysis or kidney transplant.
High blood pressure and kidney disease: High blood pressure can cause kidney damage and can also develop because of kidney disease.
Glomerular diseases: Conditions that damage the tiny filters in the kidneys and affect how well they clean the blood.
Genetic and cystic kidney diseases: Inherited conditions, including polycystic kidney disease, that can affect kidney function.
Kidney stones: Hard deposits that form in the kidneys and may cause pain or problems with urination.
Electrolyte and acid-base disorders: Imbalances in minerals or acids in the blood that may develop when the kidneys aren’t working properly.
View All Kidney Conditions
What kidney treatments does Ochsner offer?
Kidney disease treatment: Treatment may include medications, nutrition changes and management of conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure to help protect kidney function.
Dialysis: Ochsner offers several types of dialysis for patients whose kidneys can no longer adequately filter their blood.
- Hemodialysis
- Home hemodialysis
- Peritoneal dialysis
- Continuous renal replacement therapy for critically ill patients
Interventional nephrology: Ochsner specialists perform procedures to help patients receive dialysis and manage dialysis access, including catheter procedures.
Kidney transplant: Patients with advanced kidney disease may be evaluated for kidney transplant through the Ochsner Transplant Institute.
Kidney biopsy: A kidney biopsy removes a small sample of kidney tissue so doctors can better understand the cause of kidney disease.
Explore Kidney Treatments

Multidisciplinary Palliative Nephrology Clinic

For people with advanced kidney disease, deciding whether to start dialysis can be difficult. Ochsner’s Multidisciplinary Palliative Nephrology Clinic brings together kidney and palliative care specialists to help you understand your options and make decisions based on your health, goals and what matters most to you.

The team also provides active medical care without dialysis for patients who choose this approach. Care focuses on keeping your kidneys working as long as possible, managing symptoms and supporting your quality of life.

Doctor holding patients hand for palliative care

Patient with kidney disease talking to doctor

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Clinic

The Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Clinic at Ochsner Health delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care for families affected by autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). We provide coordinated care at Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans. Ochsner Health is recognized as a PKD Foundation Partner Clinic.

Our collaborative team includes specialists in nephrology, hepatology, radiology, surgery, pain medicine and more. This model allows us to address the full spectrum of kidney and liver complications associated with PKD.

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Our holistic approach includes:

Advanced imaging and genetic testing
Individualized pain management strategies
Surgical options, such as nephrectomy
Nutritional counseling with a dedicated renal dietitian
Chronic kidney disease management and dialysis education

We work closely with the Ochsner Transplant Institute for timely evaluation when transplantation is needed. Our clinic also participates in PKD clinical trials, giving you access to innovative therapies that support your quality of life.

Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Abdallah to Learn More

Kidney disease support and education

Managing kidney disease involves more than medical treatment. Ochsner offers resources to help patients understand their condition and manage their health with nutrition support, kidney disease education and dialysis support.

Kidney disease research and clinical trials

Ochsner nephrologists participate in research and clinical trials focused on improving the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease. Research areas include chronic kidney disease, genetic kidney disease, glomerular disease and acute kidney injury.

Explore Clinical Trials

Ochsner Digital Medicine

Managing high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes is essential for kidney health. Join the remote Digital Medicine program for specialty care from a licensed clinician who partners with your doctor to monitor readings and labs, and adjust medications as needed.

Learn More

FAQs

What does a nephrologist do?

A nephrologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats conditions that affect the kidneys. Nephrologists care for people with chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, high blood pressure, electrolyte problems and other kidney conditions. They also help patients who need dialysis or kidney transplant care.
When should I see a nephrologist?

You may need to see a nephrologist if blood or urine tests show signs of kidney problems, your kidney function is getting worse or you have a condition that increases your risk of kidney disease. You may also be referred to a nephrologist for hard-to-control high blood pressure, blood or protein in your urine or changes in kidney function.
What is the difference between a nephrologist and a neurologist?

A nephrologist treats conditions that affect the kidneys. A neurologist treats conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves. While the names sound similar, these doctors care for different parts of the body.
What are the signs of kidney disease?

Kidney disease may not cause symptoms in its early stages. As kidney function gets worse, symptoms may include swelling in the feet or ankles, changes in urination, tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite or trouble concentrating. Blood and urine tests can find signs of kidney disease before symptoms develop.
What is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, happens when the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood as well as they should. The condition usually develops over time. Treatment can help slow kidney damage and manage health problems caused by CKD.
What causes kidney disease?

Diabetes and high blood pressure are two common causes of kidney disease. Other causes include genetic conditions, autoimmune diseases, infections and conditions that damage the kidneys or urinary system. Your care team can perform tests to help find the cause of your kidney problems.
Can kidney disease be treated without dialysis?

Yes. Many people with kidney disease do not need dialysis. Treatment may include medicines, nutrition changes and managing conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. For some people with advanced kidney disease, active medical care without dialysis may also be an option. This approach focuses on managing symptoms, supporting quality of life and keeping the kidneys working as long as possible.
When is a kidney transplant needed?

A kidney transplant may be an option when kidney disease becomes severe and the kidneys can no longer do enough of their normal work. Some patients can be evaluated for a kidney transplant before they need dialysis. Your kidney care team can help determine whether a transplant may be right for you.

Nephrology and Kidney Care