Preparing for a nephrology appointment

Build a one-page snapshot

A trend is usually easier to interpret when dates, units, and the laboratory reference information remain attached.

• Your main concern and what has changed since the last review
• Recent eGFR or creatinine, urine ACR or protein, blood pressure, weight, and relevant dates
• Visible blood in urine, swelling, urine changes, dizziness, breathlessness, appetite, or energy changes
• Recent infection, hospital care, imaging, biopsy, or medication change
• Your three most important questions

Bring a complete medicine list

Include prescribed medicines, injections, over-the-counter pain relievers, cold remedies, vitamins, herbal products, protein or creatine supplements, and salt substitutes.

• Name, dose, and how often you actually take each item
• Recent starts, stops, missed doses, and side effects
• Allergies or previous serious reactions
• Refill, cost, swallowing, or schedule difficulties

Use questions that lead to a plan

• What is the most likely cause of my kidney findings?
• Are my eGFR and urine protein stable, improving, or changing meaningfully?
• What is my blood-pressure goal and how should I measure it?
• What should I continue, change, or avoid—and why?
• Which symptoms or results should trigger urgent contact?
• When are the next tests and follow-up, and who will review the results?

Before you leave

Repeat the plan back in your own words. Confirm medicine changes, laboratory timing, referrals, dietary advice, warning signs, and how results will be communicated. Ask for written information when instructions are complex.

If you want support, ask whether a family member, caregiver, interpreter, or note-taker can join. Do not wait for a routine appointment if severe or rapidly worsening symptoms develop.