Nephrology (Kidney Care)

Expert kidney care is available close to home through Rochelle Community Hospital’s partnership with Rockford Nephrology Associates. This collaboration brings experienced nephrology specialists to Rochelle for the diagnosis and management of kidney disease and hypertension.

Kidney disease often develops gradually. Common symptoms may include:

• Changes in urination, including blood in the urine
• Swelling of the feet, ankles, hands, or face
• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Metallic taste or ammonia-like breath
• Back or flank pain
• Severe itching
• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• Dizziness or difficulty concentrating

If you are experiencing these symptoms, a nephrology evaluation may be recommended.

When you arrive, Multi-Specialty Clinic staff will collect your photo ID and insurance information. A nurse will review your medical history and take vital signs. You will then meet with the nephrologist to discuss your condition, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan.

What to Bring:

• Photo ID and insurance cards
• All medications, including over-the-counter medications (bring the actual bottles)
• Completed patient forms, if provided in advance

Eat, drink, and take your medications as usual unless otherwise instructed. Be prepared to provide a urine sample during your visit.

• Acute kidney injury
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Chronic kidney disease
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Kidney infections
• Kidney stones
• Protein in the urine (proteinuria)

To support accurate diagnosis and ongoing care, the following tests may be performed locally:

• Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
• Creatinine testing
• Renal artery duplex imaging
• Renal ultrasound
• Urine protein analysis