Dr. Nikhil Ashok Shah – Nephrologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Nikhil Ashok Shah is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Edmonton in Edmonton, AB, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and personalized treatment. His focus is on the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, from early detection and preventative care to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis, in a welcoming and professional environment.

Dr. Shah received his medical degree with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from India in 2002. Following his graduation, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine and then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 17 years of experience as a practicing Nephrologist since 2007, he has developed a deep expertise in managing complex kidney conditions. He has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications, including licensure through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, with license number 022336, allowing him to provide expert nephrology care in Alberta.

Dr. Shah’s professional philosophy emphasizes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and holistic management of kidney-related complications. He is dedicated to educating his patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, he strives to optimize patient outcomes. His approach involves collaborative care with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive support. Fluent in Gujarati, Hindi, and Marathi, Dr. Shah communicates clearly with all patients, fostering a trusting and reassuring healthcare environment.

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

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Dr. Shah addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.

• Pre-renal AKI: Treatment focuses on restoring kidney perfusion by addressing the underlying cause (e.g., fluid resuscitation).
• Post-renal AKI: Imaging studies are crucial for diagnosis.
• Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Management involves treating the specific kidney injury, supportive care, and sometimes dialysis.

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Shah addresses nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex cases.

• Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Imbalances in the body's sodium and water levels, which can lead to serious neurological and systemic complications.
• Resistant Hypertension: High blood pressure that remains above goal despite treatment with three or more antihypertensive medications of different classes, including a diuretic.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Imbalances in the body's pH level, either too acidic (acidosis) or too alkaline (alkalosis).

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Shah addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.

• Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Discussions about dialysis options and kidney transplantation.
• Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Managed with dietary restrictions, phosphate binders, vitamin D supplements, and calcimimetics.
• Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A common complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage the kidneys' filtering units.

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

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: In-hospital and outpatient follow-up for AKI.
• Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Specialized care for kidney complications arising from diabetes, aiming to prevent or delay progression to kidney failure.
• Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Preventing fractures and cardiovascular complications related to bone disease.
• Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Collaboration with urologists for stone removal procedures when indicated.
• Comprehensive Nephrology Consultation: Thorough assessment of kidney function, diagnosis of kidney diseases, and development of personalized management plans.
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Management of dialysis access complications like infections or thrombosis.

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

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. Shah's primary nephrology clinic is situated in a specialized facility located in the vibrant S Central area of Edmonton, near the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently accessible from the nearby Living History Museum and is well-served by Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a professional environment for comprehensive kidney care. Patients will find ample parking options in close proximity to the clinic, ensuring ease of access for every visit. This location offers a welcoming environment dedicated to high-quality nephrology services and patient-centered care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Shah?

For most consultations with Dr. Shah that are medically necessary and covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), a referral from a family doctor or another specialist (like an internist or endocrinologist) is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. In urgent situations, your referring doctor will facilitate an expedited consultation. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (780) 670-3239.

What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Shah specialize in?

A Nephrologist, such as Dr. Shah, is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. This includes managing conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), hypertension (high blood pressure), electrolyte imbalances, and providing care for patients requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. A Nephrologist, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Shah?

As a Nephrologist, Dr. Shah plays a crucial role in the kidney transplant process. This includes evaluating your suitability for a transplant, managing your health while on the waiting list, coordinating with the transplant surgical team, and providing comprehensive medical care after the transplant to manage immunosuppressive medications and monitor for complications or rejection. He works as part of a multidisciplinary transplant team.

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

Dr. Shah, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. He 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.

What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Shah?

Dr. Shah treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

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

If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Shah may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. Shah will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Shah?

A consultation with Dr. Shah is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.

a specialized nephrology clinic in Edmonton
8440 112 St NW, 11-112R Clinical Sciences Building
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Office Phone: (780) 492-0146 | Office Fax: (780) 670-3239

Dr. Shah 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. Shah, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Verify Dr. Shah's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=b0a0e5e5-1098-4ca5-9d7e-be9a19442f65&i=1309