Conditions & Treatments

Your kidneys play a vital role in keeping you healthy. They filter waste and excess fluid from your blood, help control blood pressure, balance electrolytes and stimulate red blood cell production. 

When your kidneys aren’t working properly, it can affect how you feel - causing fatigue, swelling, or pain. At Banner Health, our kidney care specialists (nephrologists) diagnose and treat a wide range of kidney conditions using advanced technology and compassionate care. 

We’re here to help you understand your condition, find the right treatment and protect your kidney health for the long term. 

Understanding how your kidneys work 

Each kidney filters nearly 50 gallons of blood a day, removing toxins and maintaining the body’s fluid balance. 

When kidney function is disrupted, waste can build up in your blood, and other organs - like your heart and circulatory system - may also be affected. 

You may notice signs of kidney problems such as: 

• Pain in your lower back or side 
• Blood in your urine 
• Swelling in your legs, ankles or hands 
• Fatigue or shortness of breath 
• High blood pressure 
• Changes in urination frequency 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a kidney specialist for testing and treatment. 

Common kidney conditions we treat 

Kidney issues can range from mild infections to chronic disease requiring long-term care. Banner Health’s kidney specialists use advanced diagnostics and evidence-based treatments to help you recover and prevent complications. 

We treat many conditions, including: 

• Kidney stones - Hard mineral deposits that can cause pain or block urine flow. Learn more about kidney stones. 
• Urinary tract and kidney infections (UTIs) -  Infections that may spread to the kidneys if not treated promptly. Learn more about UTIs and kidney infections. 
• Blood or protein in the urine (glomerular disease) -  A sign of inflammation or damage to the kidney’s filtering units.  
• Kidney failure (acute or chronic) - When the kidneys can’t filter waste effectively, requiring dialysis or transplant evaluation. Learn more about kidney failure. 
• Rhabdomyolysis -  A condition caused by muscle breakdown that releases toxins harmful to the kidneys. Learn more about rhabdomyolysis. 

Our team takes the time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle and health history to determine the best course of care. 

Kidney treatment options 

Treatment depends on your specific diagnosis, kidney function and overall health. 

Banner Health offers a full range of kidney treatments, from noninvasive options to advanced procedures, all designed to relieve symptoms and preserve kidney function. 

Common kidney treatments include: 

• Lithotripsy: A noninvasive procedure that uses sound waves to break up kidney stones. 
• Interventional radiology: Image-guided procedures to treat blockages or repair blood vessels. 
• Surgery: Used for complex or severe kidney conditions that require structural repair or stone removal. 
• Dialysis: A treatment that filters your blood when your kidneys are unable to do so effectively. 
• Medical management and monitoring: Medication and follow-up to control blood pressure, manage diabetes and slow disease progression. 

Your kidney specialist will discuss which treatments are best for your condition and help you understand what to expect before, during and after care. 

When to see a kidney specialist 

Schedule an appointment if you notice any of the following: 

• Blood in your urine 
• Persistent back or flank pain 
• Swelling in your hands, feet or face 
• Changes in urination patterns 
• Unexplained fatigue or nausea 
• High blood pressure that’s hard to manage 

Early evaluation can prevent complications and protect your kidney health. 

Why choose Banner Health for kidney care 

At Banner Health, you’ll find expert care from nephrologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurses and dietitians working together to protect your kidney health. 

We offer: 

• Comprehensive testing to pinpoint the cause of kidney problems 
• Advanced, minimally invasive procedures to shorten recovery time 
• Collaborative care across nephrology, urology and radiology 
• Personalized treatment plans focused on long-term kidney function and wellness 

We’re committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care for every patient. 

Frequently asked questions about kidney conditions and treatment 

What causes kidney disease? 

Kidney disease can result from diabetes, high blood pressure, infections or structural problems. Early treatment helps slow its progression. 

Can kidney damage be reversed? 

Some damage may be reversible if caught early. Chronic kidney disease often requires ongoing care to prevent worsening. 

What is dialysis? 

Dialysis filters waste and fluid from your blood when your kidneys can’t. It can be done in a clinic or at home, depending on your condition. 

How are kidney stones treated? 

Small stones may pass naturally, while larger ones might require lithotripsy or minimally invasive surgery. 

When should I see a kidney specialist? 

If you have blood in your urine, persistent pain, swelling, or changes in urination, make an appointment with a kidney specialist as soon as possible. 

Find kidney care near you 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a kidney condition or need ongoing management, Banner Health is here to help. 

Our nephrology specialists provide comprehensive testing and advanced treatment to help you feel better and stay well. 

Find a Banner Health kidney specialist near you.