Last reviewed by Dr. Leena Joshi, MD, September 2026
Nephrology care focuses on the diagnosis and management of kidney diseases and conditions affecting kidney function. Dr. Leena Joshi provides comprehensive nephrology services to patients in Daly City and throughout San Mateo County, offering evaluation, treatment planning, and ongoing management for acute and chronic kidney conditions. Dr. Joshi works closely with patients to preserve kidney function, manage complications, and coordinate care when specialized interventions may be needed.
What is nephrology care?
Nephrology care involves the medical specialty focused on kidney health and the treatment of kidney diseases. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that filter waste and excess fluid from the blood, regulate blood pressure, and produce hormones that help make red blood cells and keep bones strong. When kidneys do not work properly, waste can build up in the body and cause serious health problems. A kidney doctor, also called a nephrologist, has special training to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the kidneys. Nephrology care may include managing chronic kidney disease, treating kidney infections, addressing electrolyte imbalances, and helping patients understand how conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure affect kidney function. Dr. Joshi provides nephrology care to patients throughout Daly City and the surrounding communities in San Mateo County.
Signs and symptoms
Patients may benefit from seeing a kidney doctor in Daly City if they experience:
- Changes in urination patterns, including increased frequency, decreased output, or foamy urine
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face
- Persistent fatigue or weakness that interferes with daily activities
- Difficulty controlling blood pressure despite medication
- Blood in the urine or dark-colored urine
- Persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Muscle cramps or numbness and tingling in extremities
How Dr. Joshi manages nephrology conditions
Dr. Joshi begins with a comprehensive evaluation that may include reviewing medical history, performing a physical examination, and ordering laboratory tests to assess kidney function. Blood tests can measure creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels, while urine tests can detect protein, blood, or signs of infection. Imaging studies may be recommended to visualize kidney structure. Based on the findings, Dr. Joshi develops an individualized treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause of kidney dysfunction. Management strategies may include medication adjustments to control blood pressure and blood sugar, dietary modifications to reduce strain on the kidneys, and treatment of conditions that contribute to kidney disease. Dr. Joshi monitors patients regularly to track kidney function over time and adjust treatment as needed. For patients in Daly City and San Mateo County, Dr. Joshi provides education about kidney health and coordinates with other specialists when comprehensive care is required. The goal is to preserve kidney function and prevent progression of kidney disease.
When to see a nephrologist for kidney concerns
Dr. Joshi recommends consultation with a kidney doctor when patients experience:
- Abnormal kidney function tests ordered by a primary care physician
- Diagnosis of chronic kidney disease at any stage
- Diabetes or high blood pressure that is difficult to control
- Recurrent kidney stones or urinary tract infections
- Family history of kidney disease or inherited kidney conditions
- Persistent protein or blood in the urine
- Need for dialysis planning or kidney transplant evaluation
Frequently asked questions
What does a kidney doctor do?
A kidney doctor, or nephrologist, specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the kidneys. Dr. Joshi evaluates kidney function, manages chronic kidney disease, treats electrolyte imbalances, and helps patients preserve kidney health through medication management and lifestyle modifications.
How do I know if I need to see a nephrologist?
Your primary care physician may refer you to Dr. Joshi if blood or urine tests show abnormal kidney function, if you have poorly controlled high blood pressure or diabetes, or if you experience symptoms like persistent swelling or changes in urination.
What tests are used to check kidney function?
Dr. Joshi may order blood tests to measure creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate, urine tests to check for protein or blood, and imaging studies like ultrasound. Your physician will determine which tests are appropriate for your specific situation.
Can kidney disease be reversed?
Some acute kidney conditions may improve with treatment, but chronic kidney disease typically cannot be reversed. Dr. Joshi focuses on slowing disease progression, managing symptoms, and preserving remaining kidney function through comprehensive care and monitoring.
How often should I see a nephrologist?
The frequency of visits depends on the stage and severity of kidney disease. Dr. Joshi may recommend visits every few months for stable chronic kidney disease or more frequent monitoring if kidney function is declining or treatment adjustments are needed.
Does Dr. Joshi accept new patients in Daly City?
Yes, Dr. Joshi welcomes new patients at her Daly City office and throughout San Mateo County. Patients can call to schedule a consultation and discuss their kidney health concerns with a board-certified nephrologist.
Dr. Joshi maintains offices at 1750 El Camino Real, Suite 301, Burlingame and 1800 Sullivan Avenue, Suite 507, Daly City. To schedule a consultation for nephrology care, 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.