What happens at a kidney consultation, and how to prepare

Whether you are seeing a nephrologist (kidney specialist) or an internal medicine physician about your kidneys, the visit follows a similar pattern. Knowing what to expect can make it less stressful.

What usually happens

1. Your story. The doctor asks why you came, what symptoms you have noticed, and your medical history. They will ask about diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, past kidney stones or infections, pregnancies, and any family history of kidney disease.

2. Your medicines. Some medicines, including some painkillers and herbal products, can affect the kidneys. The doctor needs to know everything you take, not only prescribed medicines.

3. Your results over time. The doctor looks at your creatinine and eGFR, urine ACR and other results, and how they have changed. A trend over months is often more useful than one result.

4. Examination. This usually includes blood pressure, weight, and checking for swelling in the legs or around the eyes.

5. New tests. You may be asked for repeat blood and urine tests, blood minerals such as potassium, a blood count, or a kidney ultrasound. Some tests may be done the same day, and some at a laboratory or imaging centre later.

6. A plan. The doctor explains what they think is happening, what is still uncertain, and what happens next. That may be further tests, changes to medicines, a follow-up date, or shared care with your usual doctor.

How to prepare

• Collect your results. Put every kidney-related result you have in date order. Many people in Mombasa have results from different laboratories and hospital outpatient clinics. Bring them all, including older ones.
• Write down your medicines. Include the name, strength and how often you take each one. Or bring the packets.
• Keep a short record. If you check your blood pressure or blood sugar at home or at a pharmacy, write the readings down with dates.
• Note your symptoms. When did they start? Are they getting better or worse? Examples include swelling, tiredness, foamy urine or changes in how often you pass urine.
• Ask about preparation. When booking, ask whether any test needs you to fast or collect a urine sample in a particular way.
• Consider bringing someone. A family member can help you remember what was said.

Checklist: what to bring

Do not stop or change any medicine before your visit unless a doctor has told you to. Bring the list and discuss it.

Questions to ask

It is normal to feel rushed. A short list helps. For example:

• What do my eGFR and ACR results show, and how have they changed?
• Do I have chronic kidney disease? If so, what stage?
• What is the likely cause?
• Are any of my medicines or remedies a concern for my kidneys?
• What should my blood pressure target be?
• How often should my kidneys be checked, and who will do it?
• What signs should make me seek care sooner?

Our full list of questions to ask your doctor can be printed or saved on your phone.

After the consultation

Ask for copies of new results and any letter the doctor writes. Add them to your folder. If you are sent for tests elsewhere, confirm how the results will get back to the doctor. Monitoring kidney health usually happens over months and years, so a well-kept record helps every doctor you see. Read more about monitoring CKD.

Asking about cost

Before your visit, ask the clinic what the consultation fee covers and whether tests are charged separately. If you plan to use SHA or private insurance, ask whether the clinic accepts your cover for specialist visits and whether you need pre-authorisation.

Common questions

How long does a kidney consultation take?

It varies by clinic. A first visit is usually longer than follow-up visits because the doctor reviews your full history and previous results. Ask when you book.

Do I need to fast before a kidney consultation?

Most kidney blood and urine tests do not need fasting, but some other tests ordered at the same time might. Ask the clinic or laboratory when you book.

Should I mention herbal medicines?

Yes. Tell the doctor about all herbal, traditional and over-the-counter products, as some can affect the kidneys or interact with prescribed medicines.

This page explains what kidney care involves in general terms. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace advice from a doctor who knows your history. Your results should be interpreted together with your symptoms, other tests and a clinical assessment. Medical disclaimer.