What is the difference between Urology and Nephrology?

Some may think that a nephrologist and a urologist are the same but they are not. When you say nephrologist, this is someone who specifically treats some diseases that are related to the kidney.

For example, if the ability of the kidney is compromised, a nephrologist will be in charge of checking out how the disease may possibly be cured or reversed. When you say urologist, this is someone who specifically tracks down diseases and tries to cure diseases that are related to the urinary tract.

There are instances when some of the urinary tract diseases can also affect the kidneys. That is the time when nephrologists and urologists would need to work together.

Nephrologists handle kidney disorders, while urologists are surgeons who handle urinary tract disorders. The kidneys produce urine, while the upper urinary tract affects the kidneys, and the lower urinary tract contains the bladder and the urethra. Nephrology is a specialty of internal medicine. A nephrologist is a doctor who has been trained in the diagnosis and management of kidney disease.

Unlike urologists, nephrologists will treat the disorder by using non-surgical methods. These methods include adjusting electrolytes, regulating blood pressure, and balancing fluids in the body. Someone may be referred to a nephrologist because of a kidney disorder.

The urologist, on the other hand, is trained to examine the urinary tracts of both males and females. Urologists can also perform circumcisions, which is when the skin is removed from the tip of the male genitals.