An AV fistula is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein, typically in the arm, used for hemodialysis.

Urology is a medical specialty that focuses on the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra) and the male reproductive system (prostate, testicles, penis).

These can include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, blood in the urine, difficulty emptying the bladder, urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and lower back pain.

Risk factors include age, family history, lifestyle habits (smoking), and certain medical conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure).

Maintain a healthy weight, drink plenty of fluids, avoid smoking, and eat a balanced diet.

Tests may include urinalysis, urine culture, blood tests, imaging tests (ultrasound, CT scan), and urodynamic testing.

Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose function over time, leading to waste buildup in the body.

Common causes include diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, and recurrent kidney infections.

Symptoms may include fatigue, swelling in ankles and feet, nausea, shortness of breath, confusion, and decreased urine output.

Diagnosis is made through blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a kidney biopsy to assess kidney function and damage.

Treatments include medications to manage symptoms, lifestyle changes, dialysis, and in severe cases, kidney transplantation.