Kidney Health

Learn the basics of kidney health, including tips to protect your kidneys, treatment options like dialysis and how to manage chronic kidney disease.

At TidalHealth, we recognize how essential your kidneys are to your overall health. Our nephrologists are compassionate, highly trained specialists who diagnose and treat a wide range of kidney-related conditions, including kidney inflammation, kidney failure and electrolyte imbalances. We also care for patients with high blood pressure and provide support for those who need dialysis or ongoing care after a kidney transplant.

We offer kidney care in both hospital and clinic settings, providing help for urgent problems as well as long-term guidance and education. Whether you need short-term treatment or ongoing support for chronic kidney disease, our team is here to explain your options and help you make informed decisions.

Our services include:

  • Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis for kidneys that are not functioning properly
  • Consultations and follow-up appointments in the hospital and at our outpatient clinics
  • Outpatient dialysis management focused on comfort and quality of life
  • Post-kidney transplant care to help you stay healthy after surgery
  • Education and support for those living with chronic kidney disease

If you have concerns about your kidney health, you can count on our team for honest information and compassionate care at every stage.

At TidalHealth, we want you and your family to understand what chronic kidney disease (CKD) means and how it may affect your health. The kidneys play a vital role in removing waste and excess fluids from the blood. CKD is the gradual loss of this function, which can lead to a harmful buildup of fluids, electrolytes and waste products.

Managing CKD focuses on slowing kidney damage and addressing underlying causes such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Without treatment, CKD can progress to kidney failure, but early detection makes a significant difference. Our team will walk you through treatment options, including dialysis and kidney transplantation, and provide ongoing support to help you live well with CKD.

How to Prevent or Slow Chronic Kidney Disease

Caring for your kidneys can make a meaningful impact on your overall health. Here are key steps recommended by our TidalHealth team:

  • Control blood sugar: Diabetes is the leading cause of CKD, so good blood sugar management is essential.
  • Manage blood pressure: Aim for levels below 130/80 to help protect the small blood vessels in your kidneys.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking damages the blood vessels that support your kidneys and other organs.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight increases the risk of diabetes and hypertension, which can lead to kidney disease.
  • Limit salt: A low-sodium diet helps control blood pressure.
  • Choose nourishing foods: A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and healthy fats supports kidney health.
  • Stay active: Regular exercise helps manage weight, blood pressure and blood sugar.
  • Take medications as directed: Some drugs can affect the kidneys, so always check with your provider before starting anything new.
  • Get routine checkups: Regular blood pressure checks and kidney function tests help spot issues early.

Kidney health is a lifelong commitment, and our team is here to support you at every step.

Dialysis is a treatment used when the kidneys can no longer filter waste, salt and extra fluid from the blood. When kidney function declines, dialysis removes harmful substances and helps maintain balance in your body. It is a life-sustaining treatment for people with chronic kidney disease or kidney failure, and our team is here to guide you through the process with compassion and clarity.

At TidalHealth, we offer two main types of dialysis to support your kidney health:

Hemodialysis
This treatment uses a special filter, called a dialyzer, to cleanse your blood and remove waste and excess fluid.

Peritoneal Dialysis
This method uses the lining of your abdomen, and a cleansing fluid called dialysate to filter waste from your blood.

Your nephrologist will help you understand the differences between these treatments and recommend the option that best fits your needs and lifestyle. We’ll guide you through every step, so you feel confident and supported throughout your care.