Chronic Kidney Disease Treatment in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County | Dr. Leena Joshi, MD
Last reviewed by Dr. Leena Joshi, MD on June 2026
Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood over time. Dr. Leena Joshi treats chronic kidney disease in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County through comprehensive management that may include medication adjustments, dietary guidance, blood pressure control, and monitoring of kidney function. Dr. Joshi works closely with each patient to slow disease progression and manage complications.
What is chronic kidney disease?
Chronic kidney disease, often called CKD, happens when the kidneys become damaged and cannot filter blood as well as they should. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that clean waste and extra water from your blood to make urine. When chronic kidney disease develops, waste can build up in your body and cause other health problems. This condition usually gets worse slowly over months or years. Chronic kidney disease has five stages, from mild damage in stage 1 to kidney failure in stage 5. Many things can cause chronic kidney disease, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions that harm the kidneys over time. Early detection and treatment can help slow down kidney damage and keep you healthier longer.
Signs and symptoms
- Fatigue and decreased energy levels
- Swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs
- Changes in urination frequency or appearance
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Difficulty concentrating or mental fog
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent itching or dry skin
How Dr. Joshi manages chronic kidney disease
Dr. Joshi provides personalized care for patients with chronic kidney disease in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County. During the initial evaluation, Dr. Joshi reviews medical history, performs a physical examination, and orders laboratory tests to assess kidney function and identify the underlying cause. Treatment plans may include medications to control blood pressure and blood sugar, dietary modifications to reduce strain on the kidneys, and management of complications such as anemia or bone disease. Dr. Joshi emphasizes patient education, helping individuals understand how lifestyle choices affect kidney health. Regular monitoring through blood tests and urine studies allows Dr. Joshi to track disease progression and adjust treatment as needed. For patients with advancing disease, Dr. Joshi discusses options such as dialysis or kidney transplant referrals when appropriate. The goal is to preserve remaining kidney function, prevent complications, and maintain the best possible quality of life for each patient.
When to see a nephrologist for chronic kidney disease
- Your primary care doctor detects reduced kidney function on blood tests
- You have diabetes or high blood pressure with signs of kidney involvement
- You experience persistent swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination
- Your kidney function is declining despite treatment
- You need guidance on managing advanced kidney disease
Frequently asked questions
Can chronic kidney disease be reversed?
Most chronic kidney disease cannot be completely reversed, but progression can often be slowed or stopped with proper treatment. Dr. Joshi focuses on preserving remaining kidney function through medication, lifestyle changes, and careful monitoring of underlying conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
What diet changes help with chronic kidney disease?
Dietary modifications may include limiting sodium, potassium, and phosphorus depending on your stage of disease. Dr. Joshi can provide specific recommendations based on your lab results and may refer you to a renal dietitian for detailed meal planning guidance.
How often will I need appointments for chronic kidney disease?
Appointment frequency depends on your disease stage and overall health. Dr. Joshi may recommend visits every few months for early-stage disease or more frequently for advanced stages. Regular monitoring helps detect changes early and adjust treatment promptly.
Will I need dialysis with chronic kidney disease?
Not all patients with chronic kidney disease require dialysis. Many people manage the condition for years with medication and lifestyle changes. Dr. Joshi will discuss dialysis options only if kidney function declines to a level where it becomes medically necessary.
What medications treat chronic kidney disease?
Medications may include blood pressure drugs, medications to control blood sugar, drugs to manage anemia, and treatments for bone health. Dr. Joshi tailors medication regimens to each patient’s specific needs and adjusts them based on lab results and symptoms.
Does chronic kidney disease cause symptoms in early stages?
Early chronic kidney disease often causes no noticeable symptoms, which is why regular screening is important for at-risk individuals. Symptoms typically appear in later stages when kidney function has declined significantly. Dr. Joshi emphasizes early detection through routine testing.
Schedule a consultation
Dr. Leena Joshi offers chronic kidney disease treatment at two convenient locations. The Burlingame office is located at 1750 El Camino Real, Suite 301, Burlingame, CA. The Daly City office is at 1800 Sullivan Ave, Suite 507, Daly City, CA. To schedule a consultation, please call (650) 355-5551.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your physician about your specific situation.
Medically reviewed by Leena Joshi, MD.