Nephrology covers a wide range of conditions that affect how well your kidneys filter and balance the fluids in your body. At Prima CARE, Dr. Swetha Nataraj provides care for:Â
Many kidney conditions develop slowly and without obvious symptoms, which is why routine monitoring matters, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Dr. Nataraj works closely with your primary care provider to catch changes early and adjust your care plan as your needs change
Dr. Swetha Nataraj is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology and has practiced nephrology in the Fall River community for more than 15 years. Dr. Nataraj earned an M.D. at Kilpauk Medical College in Chennai, completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Connecticut Health Center, where Dr. Nataraj received the Best Intern of the Year award, and completed a nephrology fellowship at Brown University. Dr. Nataraj is a member of the American Society of Nephrology and the American College of Physicians, cares for patients at Saint Anne's and Charlton Memorial Hospitals, and speaks Hindi and English. Read Dr. Nataraj's full bio.
A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the kidneys, including chronic kidney disease, hypertension linked to kidney function, and electrolyte imbalances. Nephrologists typically don't perform surgery. Instead, they manage your kidney health through testing, medication, lifestyle guidance, and, when necessary, dialysis planning.
You may benefit from seeing a nephrologist if your primary care provider has found protein or blood in your urine, a decline in your kidney function on bloodwork, or if you have diabetes or high blood pressure that's proving difficult to control. A referral from your primary care doctor is the most common way patients reach Prima CARE Nephrology, though you're welcome to reach out directly with questions.
Yes. Prima CARE accepts most major insurance plans. If you have questions about your specific coverage for nephrology visits or dialysis-related care, our office staff can help you confirm your benefits before your appointment.
Getting started with Prima CARE Nephrology is easy. Just schedule an appointment with Dr. Swetha Nataraj, and our team will reach out quickly to confirm your time. We look forward to seeing you!
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means your kidneys have been damaged and don't filter blood as well as they should for three months or longer. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes. CKD often has no symptoms early on, which is why regular blood and urine tests are so important.
Your nephrologist will review your health history, medicines and recent lab results, check your blood pressure and examine you. You may need new blood and urine tests or a kidney ultrasound. Bring a list of your medicines, including over-the-counter pain relievers and supplements, and any recent lab work.
Keep your blood sugar and blood pressure in your target range, take your medicines as prescribed, limit salt, stay active and avoid smoking. Check with your provider before taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, which can strain the kidneys. Regular kidney testing helps catch changes early.
