Finding the right specialist for acute kidney infections is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. In Salem, a city known for its rich history and vast community, patients have access to some of the most skilled nephrologists in the region.
These experts are not only well-versed in the latest medical advancements but also committed to providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Navigating through the options can be overwhelming, but knowing which doctors stand out can make all the difference.
This article highlights nine of Salem’s top acute kidney infection specialists, each renowned for their expertise and dedication.
Whether you’re seeking a second opinion or starting your treatment journey, these professionals offer the confidence and reassurance needed for optimal kidney health.
Top 9 Best Acute Kidney Infection Doctors in Salem
If you’re looking for doctors who specialize in treating acute kidney infections (acute pyelonephritis) in Salem, it’s essential to find healthcare providers with expertise in nephrology or urology.
Here are nine highly-rated doctors specializing in acute kidney infections and related conditions in Salem, Oregon:
1. Dr. David Canes, MD
- Location: Derry, NH (affiliated with Parkland Medical Center)
- Specialties: Urology
- Education: Graduated from Cornell University, 2001
- Experience: 22 years
- Affiliations: Parkland Medical Center
- Patient Ratings: High patient satisfaction and exemplary care
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Personalized treatment plans with clear explanations of conditions
2. Dr. Charles Malis, MD
- Location: Concord, MA
- Specialties: Nephrology
- Education: Graduated from Drexel University College of Medicine, 1975
- Experience: 48 years
- Affiliations: Lawrence General Hospital, Emerson Hospital
- Patient Ratings: Highly rated for patient care
- Telehealth: Available
- Note: Currently not accepting new patients
3. Dr. Christopher Girasole, MD
- Location: Manchester, NH (affiliated with Parkland Medical Center)
- Specialties: Urology
- Education: Graduated from Vanderbilt University
- Experience: 21 years
- Affiliations: Parkland Medical Center
- Patient Ratings: Healthgrades Choice designation for quality care
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Focus on patient satisfaction and accessible care
4. Dr. Marc Cendron, MD
- Location: Boston, MA (affiliated with Boston Children’s Hospital)
- Specialties: Pediatric Urology
- Education: Graduated from Harvard Medical School
- Experience: Over 20 years
- Affiliations: Milford Regional Medical Center, Boston Children’s Hospital
- Patient Ratings: Highly rated for patient care
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Committed to improving health outcomes for children
5. Dr. Ali Moinzadeh, MD
- Location: Burlington, MA (affiliated with Lahey Hospital and Medical Center)
- Specialties: Urology
- Education: Graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 1997
- Experience: 26 years
- Affiliations: Lahey Hospital and Medical Center
- Patient Ratings: 4.9 from 102 reviews
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Focus on complex urological conditions with personalized treatment plans
6. Dr. Arthur Mourtzinos, MD
- Location: Peabody, MA (affiliated with Parkland Medical Center)
- Specialties: Urology
- Education: Medical degree from an accredited institution
- Experience: Extensive experience in urinary conditions
- Affiliations: Parkland Medical Center
- Patient Ratings: High ratings for clear communication
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Focuses on individualized patient needs
7. Dr. Hsin-Hsiao Wang, MD
- Location: Boston, MA (affiliated with Boston Children’s Hospital)
- Specialties: Urology
- Education: Graduated from National Yang Ming Medical College, 2008
- Experience: 15 years
- Affiliations: Boston Children’s Hospital
- Patient Ratings: High satisfaction ratings
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Welcoming demeanor with a focus on patient care
8. Dr. Mark Laspina, DO
- Location: Newburyport, MA (affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital)
- Specialties: Urology
- Education: Graduated from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2002
- Experience: 21 years
- Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, North Shore Medical Center
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Expert management of urinary conditions
9. Dr. Thomas Kingston, MD
- Location: Salem, MA
- Specialties: Urology
- Education: Graduated from the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College, 1985
- Experience: 38 years
- Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, North Shore Medical Center
- Patient Ratings: 4.6 from 10 reviews
- Telehealth: Available
- Care Approach: Focus on effective treatment of urinary conditions and renal calculi
Symptoms of Acute Kidney Infection
Acute kidney infection, also known as acute pyelonephritis, is a sudden and severe infection of the kidneys.
It can occur when bacteria or viruses travel from the bladder to the kidneys, leading to inflammation and infection. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Here are the common symptoms associated with acute kidney infections:
Fever and Chills
A sudden onset of fever is one of the hallmark symptoms of acute kidney infection. The body raises its temperature as a response to infection, often reaching above 101°F (38.3°C).
Accompanying chills can occur as the body tries to regulate its temperature. These symptoms indicate that the immune system is actively fighting the infection, and they can cause discomfort, fatigue, and sweating episodes as the fever fluctuates.
Flank Pain
Pain in the lower back or sides, known as flank pain, is a prominent symptom. This pain can range from dull and aching to sharp and intense, often reflecting the severity of the infection.
Flank pain may worsen with movement, deep breaths, or changes in position. Patients may also experience tenderness when pressure is applied to the flank area, which can help differentiate kidney pain from other sources of abdominal discomfort.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is commonly reported in individuals with acute kidney infections. This may stem from the body’s inflammatory response and can be exacerbated by pain or fever. Vomiting may occur in some cases, especially if the nausea is severe.
These gastrointestinal symptoms can lead to dehydration, further complicating the patient’s condition, and may necessitate intravenous fluids for rehydration.
Frequent Urination
An increased urge to urinate, known as urinary frequency, is a common symptom associated with urinary tract infections, including those affecting the kidneys.
Patients may find themselves needing to urinate more often than usual, often in small amounts. This symptom can be particularly distressing and disruptive, impacting daily activities and sleep patterns.
Painful Urination (Dysuria)
Dysuria, or painful urination, is often characterized by a burning sensation when urinating. This symptom can cause anxiety and discomfort, leading individuals to avoid drinking fluids, which can further aggravate dehydration and worsen kidney function.
The presence of dysuria can also signal irritation in the urinary tract, prompting further investigation.
Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine
Changes in urine characteristics can be significant indicators of a kidney infection. Cloudy urine may result from the presence of pus or bacteria, while foul-smelling urine can indicate infection or the presence of metabolites from bacteria.
These changes can be alarming and may prompt individuals to seek medical attention sooner.
Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can manifest as pink, red, or brown urine, depending on the amount of blood present.
This symptom is not always visible; sometimes, blood can only be detected through lab tests. Hematuria can result from irritation or damage to the urinary tract due to the infection and warrants immediate medical evaluation.
General Malaise
Many individuals with acute kidney infections report a general sense of malaise or fatigue. This can be attributed to the body’s energy being redirected toward fighting the infection and the systemic effects of fever and inflammation.
Patients may feel unusually tired or weak, making it challenging to perform everyday activities.
Confusion or Altered Mental Status
In older adults or individuals with compromised immune systems, confusion or changes in mental status can occur.
This may manifest as difficulty concentrating, disorientation, or forgetfulness. Such symptoms can be concerning, as they may indicate a more severe systemic response to the infection or complications such as sepsis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is acute kidney infection curable?
Yes, acute kidney infections are typically curable with prompt treatment, often involving antibiotics.
What is the strongest antibiotic for kidney infection?
Commonly prescribed antibiotics include ciprofloxacin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and nitrofurantoin, with specific choices depending on the infection’s severity and bacterial resistance.
Where is the best place to go for a kidney infection?
The best place to seek treatment for a kidney infection is an urgent care center or an emergency room, especially if experiencing severe symptoms.
How bad is acute kidney infection?
Acute kidney infections can be serious and may lead to complications if untreated, including kidney damage or sepsis.
How long does it take to recover from an acute kidney infection?
Recovery usually takes 1 to 2 weeks with appropriate treatment, although some symptoms may linger longer.
Conclusion
Finding the right specialist for acute kidney infections in Salem is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.
Patients must consider factors like doctor availability, patient satisfaction, and telehealth options. The featured doctors possess expertise across a range of facilities.
Their willingness to accept new patients underscores their dedication to accessible care.
By choosing a highly skilled nephrologist or urologist, individuals ensure they receive top-notch medical attention. Contacting these professionals for personalized care is the first step toward better health.
Explore their qualifications, patient reviews, and affiliations with top medical institutions to make an informed decision. Prioritizing accredited experts can significantly enhance treatment outcomes.
Laura Fletcher