Dr. Aakanksha Sharma
Senior Consultant Nephrology
Dr. Aakanksha Sharma serves as Senior Consultant Nephrology with expertise in comprehensive kidney care. Her clinical interests include chronic kidney disease management, dialysis care, diabetic nephropathy, hypertension-related kidney disorders, and preventive nephrology. She focuses on early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term kidney health management to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Frequently asked
Questions patients ask.
What does a nephrologist do?
A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in kidney diseases and high blood pressure. We diagnose problems like chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, dialysis needs, and electrolyte imbalances — and design treatment plans tailored to each patient.
When should I see a nephrologist?
Consider a visit if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, persistent swelling, foamy urine, abnormal creatinine on a blood test, or a family history of kidney disease. Early evaluation can prevent serious problems later.
What happens at my first nephrology appointment?
We start with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, medical history, and current medicines. We then review or order tests — serum creatinine, eGFR, urine routine, and sometimes an ultrasound — and explain what they mean. You leave with a clear plan and next steps.
Can I prevent kidney disease?
Yes, in many cases. Keep your blood pressure under 130/80, your sugar in target range if you are diabetic, drink water as advised, avoid overuse of painkillers, and get a yearly kidney check after age 40. Small habits make a big difference over decades.
How is high blood pressure connected to kidneys?
High blood pressure damages the small filters in the kidneys over time, leading to chronic kidney disease. At the same time, unhealthy kidneys make blood pressure harder to control — they feed each other. Controlling BP is one of the most important things you can do for your kidneys.
What is preventive nephrology?
It is the practice of catching kidney problems early — before symptoms appear — and protecting kidney function in people at risk (diabetics, hypertensives, family history). Through regular tests, medicine review, diet guidance, and follow-up, we delay or even prevent serious kidney disease.
Will diabetes always lead to kidney failure?
No. With well-controlled blood sugar, blood pressure, and regular monitoring, many diabetics never develop serious kidney disease. The risk is real, but it is something you can actively manage with the right plan and follow-up.
Do I need a referral to see a nephrologist?
No referral is needed at our centre — you can book an appointment directly. That said, if your family doctor has done some baseline tests already, please bring those reports along. It helps us evaluate you faster and avoid repeat investigations.
How is kidney failure treated?
Treatment depends on the stage and cause. In early stages we use medicines, diet, and lifestyle changes to slow progression. In advanced kidney failure, the options are dialysis or kidney transplant. We help patients choose what fits their health and life best.
Are kidney diseases hereditary?
Some kidney conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease, do run in families. If a close relative has kidney disease or has needed dialysis or a transplant, it is wise to get yourself screened — even if you feel completely fine.
People also ask
Other questions frequently searched.
What level of creatinine is dangerous?
Creatinine above 1.4 mg/dL in men or 1.2 mg/dL in women is generally above normal and worth investigating. But "dangerous" depends on your age, muscle mass, hydration, and the trend over time. One reading alone does not give the full picture — your nephrologist will interpret it for you.
What food is good for kidneys?
For healthy kidneys: fresh fruits and vegetables in moderation, whole grains, lean protein, less salt, and plenty of water. For people with kidney disease, the diet is more specific — potassium, sodium, and phosphorus often need to be limited. A renal dietician can build a tailored plan.
Can high creatinine come down naturally?
Sometimes yes — if creatinine is high due to dehydration, infection, or a passing illness, it can return to normal once the cause is treated. But persistently high creatinine usually points to ongoing kidney damage. Get it re-checked and consult a nephrologist.
What are the stages of chronic kidney disease?
CKD has 5 stages based on eGFR. Stage 1 to 2: normal or near-normal function but signs of damage. Stage 3: moderate loss. Stage 4: severe loss. Stage 5: kidney failure, usually requiring dialysis or transplant. The earlier the stage, the more you can do to slow it down.
Is protein in urine serious?
It depends on the amount and how persistent it is. A small one-time finding may be harmless (fever or exercise can cause it). Persistent protein, especially in larger amounts, is an early warning of kidney damage and should be investigated by a nephrologist.
Should diabetics avoid painkillers?
Yes — especially the common ones like ibuprofen, diclofenac, and similar NSAIDs. Long-term or frequent use can hurt the kidneys, particularly in diabetics. Paracetamol is usually safer, but always check with your doctor before any regular use.
Can high blood pressure be cured permanently?
For most people, high blood pressure is a long-term condition that is controlled rather than cured. Weight loss, less salt, exercise, and medicines can keep it well within range. With good control, the damage to kidneys, heart, and brain is largely prevented.
How can I improve my kidney function naturally?
Control blood pressure and sugar, avoid smoking, limit salt and processed food, exercise regularly, drink water as advised, avoid unnecessary painkillers, and take only medicines approved by your doctor. These habits do not "boost" kidneys but protect them from further damage.
What is the best test to check kidney health?
A basic kidney panel — serum creatinine with eGFR plus a urine routine — gives a strong overview. If anything looks off, your nephrologist may add tests like a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio or a kidney ultrasound. Together they paint a clear picture.
Can pregnant women have kidney problems?
Yes. Pregnancy adds stress on the kidneys, and conditions like pre-eclampsia can affect them. Women with pre-existing kidney disease especially need close follow-up during pregnancy. We coordinate with the obstetrician to keep both mother and baby safe.
