Dr. Manjula Gowrishankar – Nephrologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Manjula Gowrishankar is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Edmonton, AB, she is a trusted provider of comprehensive kidney care in the community. Her practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring quality and safety in all aspects of patient care. Dr. Gowrishankar's role as a Nephrologist involves the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a wide range of services, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Sri Lanka in 1980. Following medical school, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 39 years of experience practicing as a Nephrologist since 1985, she has developed a deep expertise in managing complex kidney conditions. She holds all necessary certifications to practice in Alberta, including rigorous postgraduate training and certifications relevant to her specialty.

Dr. Gowrishankar's professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for her patients. She is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them to participate actively in their care. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and the latest therapies, she focuses on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to deliver holistic and patient-centered care. Additionally, she is proficient in Tamil, which allows her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population in Edmonton, ensuring clarity and comfort during consultations.

Dr. Manjula Gowrishankar provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Gowrishankar addresses kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining electrolyte balance.

• Secondary Hypertension: High blood pressure caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or renal artery stenosis.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Kidneys play a key role in regulating acid-base balance. Disorders can be respiratory or metabolic.
• Resistant Hypertension: Evaluation focuses on identifying secondary causes and optimizing medication regimens.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Gowrishankar addresses early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CKD.

• Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): Requires strict blood glucose and blood pressure control, along with specific kidney-protective medications.
• Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Intensive management of complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolyte imbalance) and preparation for renal replacement therapy.
• Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Aims to prevent fractures and cardiovascular complications.

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Gowrishankar addresses can be primary (originating in the kidneys) or secondary to systemic diseases like lupus or vasculitis.

• IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): A common glomerular disease caused by deposits of the antibody IgA in the glomeruli.
• Lupus Nephritis: Requires aggressive immunosuppressive therapy to prevent kidney failure.
• Nephrotic Syndrome: Treatment aims to reduce proteinuria and manage symptoms.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Manjula Gowrishankar is necessary.

• Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Diagnosis and treatment of complex imbalances in sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and acid-base status.
• Management of Dialysis Complications: Addressing common complications of dialysis such as anemia, mineral and bone disorders, cardiovascular issues, and infections.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Includes lifestyle counseling, medication management, and coordination of multidisciplinary care.
• Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Includes patient training, ongoing monitoring, and management of peritoneal dialysis-related issues.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Utilizing ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and comprehensive medication strategies.
• Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Close collaboration with endocrinologists and primary care physicians.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Gowrishankar.

All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Gowrishankar practices primarily at a specialized nephrology clinic located in Edmonton's S Central neighborhood, near the University of Alberta. The clinic is conveniently situated close to the Largest Mall in North America, making it accessible for patients from various parts of Edmonton. Patients can reach the clinic via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with parking typically available nearby, including some accessible spots. The environment is professional and welcoming, dedicated to providing comprehensive kidney care in a patient-centered setting.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Gowrishankar and a Urologist?

A Nephrologist like Dr. Gowrishankar is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and managing diseases that affect kidney function, such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, dialysis, and medical aspects of kidney transplantation. Urologists are surgical specialists who treat anatomical or structural problems of the kidneys and urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones requiring surgery, bladder issues, prostate problems, cancers of the kidney/bladder/prostate). While both deal with kidneys, Nephrologists manage kidney function and disease medically, whereas Urologists manage surgically and address urinary tract structures.

How does Dr. Gowrishankar help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Gowrishankar, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. She can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Gowrishankar?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Gowrishankar for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)). This ensures that Dr. Gowrishankar receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. Please have your referring doctor's office contact Dr. Gowrishankar's clinic for referral instructions.

What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Gowrishankar might discuss?

Dr. Gowrishankar can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Gowrishankar would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Gowrishankar?

You should see a Nephrologist like Dr. Gowrishankar if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease, have significant risk factors (like diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension with signs of kidney impact), or experience symptoms such as persistent swelling, changes in urination, blood or protein in urine, or unexplained fatigue that your family doctor suspects is kidney-related. A referral from your primary care physician or another specialist is typically required.

a specialized nephrology clinic in Edmonton
8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Office Phone: (780) 407-1431

Dr. Gowrishankar is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Gowrishankar, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Verify Dr. Gowrishankar's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=e9a2fa87-e0ca-48a7-ad40-0898d0ebb463&i=539