Last reviewed by Dr. Leena Joshi, MD, October 2026
A nephrologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases and conditions affecting kidney function. Dr. Leena Joshi is a board-certified nephrologist serving patients throughout San Mateo County, including Burlingame and Daly City. Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive kidney care, including management of chronic kidney disease, hypertension, electrolyte disorders, and dialysis coordination. Dr. Joshi works closely with primary care physicians to deliver personalized treatment plans for each patient’s unique needs.
What is a nephrologist?
A nephrologist is a medical doctor who has completed specialized training in kidney health and disease. After medical school and internal medicine residency, nephrologists complete additional fellowship training focused specifically on the kidneys and related conditions. The kidneys are vital organs that filter waste from the blood, regulate fluid balance, control blood pressure, and produce important hormones. When kidneys are not working properly, a nephrologist can help diagnose the problem and create a treatment plan. Dr. Joshi treats a wide range of kidney conditions in San Mateo County, from early kidney disease to advanced kidney failure requiring dialysis. Nephrologists also manage conditions that affect the kidneys, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Dr. Joshi coordinates care with other specialists when patients have complex medical needs affecting multiple organ systems.
Signs and symptoms
Patients may benefit from seeing a nephrologist in San Mateo County if they experience any of these symptoms or conditions:
- Persistent swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face
- Changes in urination patterns, including increased frequency, decreased output, or blood in urine
- Unexplained fatigue or weakness that does not improve with rest
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control with medication
- Abnormal kidney function tests or protein in urine detected by a primary care physician
- Chronic urinary tract infections or kidney stones
- Diabetes with concerns about kidney health
How Dr. Joshi manages kidney 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, blood urea nitrogen, and electrolyte levels, while urine tests can detect protein, blood, or other abnormalities. Depending on the findings, Dr. Joshi may recommend imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to visualize the kidneys. Treatment plans are individualized based on the specific diagnosis and may include medication management, dietary modifications, blood pressure control, and monitoring of kidney function over time. For patients with chronic kidney disease, Dr. Joshi provides ongoing care to slow disease progression and manage complications. When advanced kidney disease requires dialysis or transplant evaluation, Dr. Joshi coordinates with dialysis centers and transplant programs throughout San Mateo County. Dr. Joshi emphasizes patient education so individuals understand their condition and can participate actively in their care decisions.
When to see a nephrologist for kidney concerns
Dr. Joshi recommends patients in San Mateo County consider nephrology consultation if they have:
- Chronic kidney disease diagnosed by their primary care physician
- Acute kidney injury or sudden decline in kidney function
- Kidney stones that recur or cause complications
- Polycystic kidney disease or other inherited kidney conditions
- Glomerulonephritis or other inflammatory kidney diseases
- Difficult-to-control high blood pressure despite multiple medications
- Diabetes with evidence of kidney involvement
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a urologist and a nephrologist?
A nephrologist focuses on medical management of kidney disease and does not perform surgery. A urologist is a surgeon who treats structural problems of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, bladder, and prostate. Dr. Joshi may refer patients to a urologist when surgical intervention is needed.
How often should I see a nephrologist if I have kidney disease?
Visit frequency depends on the stage and severity of kidney disease. Dr. Joshi may recommend appointments every few months for stable chronic kidney disease or more frequent visits if kidney function is declining or treatment adjustments are needed.
Will I need dialysis if I see a nephrologist?
Not all patients who see a nephrologist require dialysis. Many kidney conditions can be managed with medication, lifestyle changes, and monitoring. Dr. Joshi works to preserve kidney function and delay or prevent the need for dialysis when possible.
Can kidney disease be reversed?
Some acute kidney injuries may improve with treatment, but chronic kidney disease is typically not reversible. However, Dr. Joshi can help slow disease progression and manage symptoms to maintain quality of life for patients in San Mateo County.
What tests will a nephrologist order?
Dr. Joshi may order blood tests to measure kidney function, urine tests to check for protein or blood, imaging studies like ultrasound, and sometimes kidney biopsy. The specific tests depend on your symptoms and medical history.
Does insurance cover nephrology visits?
Most insurance plans cover nephrology consultations when medically necessary, especially with a referral from your primary care physician. Dr. Joshi’s office can verify your specific coverage and benefits before your appointment.
Dr. Joshi welcomes patients from throughout San Mateo County at two convenient locations. The Burlingame office is located at 1750 El Camino Real, Suite 301, and the Daly City office is at 1800 Sullivan Avenue, Suite 507. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Joshi, 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.