Dr. Carlos Torres, MD

About Dr. Carlos Torres, MD

Dr. Carlos Torres, MD is a Nephrology specialist dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at his clinic in St. Augustine, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I provide comprehensive diagnosis and management of chronic kidney disease, hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, dialysis, and kidney transplantation, ensuring patient-centered care throughout all stages of kidney health. I'm committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making, creating a supportive and reassuring environment for all my patients. I serve all ages and am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (904) 829-8300 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Carlos Torres, MD is a nephrologist in St. Augustine, FL, affiliated with HCA Florida Putnam Hospital and UF Health Flagler Hospital. He earned his medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, and is deeply committed to providing exceptional care. My practice is focused on the comprehensive care of patients with kidney-related conditions, including but not limited to chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and electrolyte imbalances. He is accepting new patients and strives to deliver the best possible outcomes for every patient, ensuring their comfort and understanding throughout their journey. Dr. Carlos Torres provides consultations primarily in English.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Carlos Torres addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Hepatitis B - Immune Response: Your body's immune system is reacting to the hepatitis B virus.
• Iron Metabolism Disorders: Iron metabolism disorders affect how your body absorbs and uses iron, potentially leading to iron deficiency or overload.
• Magnesium Metabolism Disorders: Magnesium metabolism disorders affect how your body uses magnesium, potentially causing various health problems.
• Congenital Anomalies of Kidney: Congenital anomalies of the kidney are birth defects affecting kidney structure or function.
• Renal Artery Arteriosclerotic Disease: Reduced blood flow to your kidneys due to plaque buildup in the renal arteries is known as renal artery arteriosclerotic disease.
• Hypokalemia: Your body needs potassium for many functions; hypokalemia means you have too little, potentially leading to health issues.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage V: Chronic Kidney Disease Stage V represents end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring life-sustaining treatment such as dialysis or kidney transplantation.
• Secondary Renovascular Hypertension: Secondary renovascular hypertension means high blood pressure is caused by a problem with your kidney's blood vessels.
• Rhabdomyolysis: Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where damaged muscle breaks down and releases harmful substances into the bloodstream.
• Parathyroid (Gland) Disease: Parathyroid disease affects the glands that control calcium levels in your body.
• Chronic Kidney Diseases: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function over time.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage II: Your kidneys aren't functioning at their best; you've been diagnosed with Stage II Chronic Kidney Disease, indicating mild kidney damage.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Carlos Torres addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Nephrology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Nephrology Services Provided

Dr. Carlos Torres offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services: For patients with the most severe kidney disease, ESRD-related services provide the dialysis, medication, and monitoring necessary to stay alive.
• Hemodialysis: During hemodialysis, your blood is cleaned outside your body using a special filter, then returned to you.
• Kidney Transplant Evaluation: This process involves multiple tests to determine your eligibility for a kidney transplant and plan for a successful procedure.
• Living Kidney Donor Evaluation: The living kidney donor evaluation involves comprehensive medical tests to determine if you can safely donate a kidney.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) as a filter to clean your blood when your kidneys are not working properly.
• Renal Scan: This imaging test helps determine if your kidneys are filtering waste effectively and identifies potential blockages.
• Ultrasound: Doctors use ultrasound to get detailed images of your kidneys to look for abnormalities and help diagnose conditions like kidney stones or cysts.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Carlos Torres. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Nephrology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Nephrology in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Carlos Torres:

What is a Nephrologist?

Dr. Torres and our team of nephrologists are medical doctors specializing in kidney diseases. We have expertise in managing conditions such as chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and providing care for patients on dialysis or who have had a kidney transplant.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Carlos Torres?

Your first visit with Dr. Torres will involve a comprehensive review of your medical history, a detailed discussion of your kidney-related symptoms, and a physical exam. Please bring a complete list of all medications and any recent lab results or imaging reports to help ensure a thorough evaluation.

Does Dr. Carlos Torres accept my insurance?

Insurance acceptance can vary. Please call our office directly with your insurance information to verify coverage for nephrology services before your appointment.

I have recurrent kidney stones. How can a nephrologist help?

Dr. Torres specializes in preventing kidney stones from recurring. He'll perform metabolic testing to identify the cause, then recommend dietary changes, hydration adjustments, and potentially medication to reduce the risk of future stones.

Why would I need a kidney biopsy?

A kidney biopsy is a diagnostic procedure where a small piece of kidney tissue is removed with a needle for microscopic examination. It's the most definitive way to diagnose specific kidney diseases, such as glomerulonephritis, and to guide treatment decisions.

How is Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) managed?

Managing Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a long-term strategy focusing on controlling symptoms, slowing cyst growth, and preserving kidney function. This involves strict blood pressure control, pain management, treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs), and discussion of newer medications that may slow disease progression. Our team will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan.

What is the connection between my kidneys and high blood pressure?

High blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time, and damaged kidneys can also cause high blood pressure. A nephrologist, like Dr. Torres, specializes in managing complex or resistant hypertension, often by addressing kidney-related factors.

How does Dr. Carlos Torres manage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Dr. Torres's CKD management focuses on slowing disease progression and addressing complications. Key strategies include controlling blood pressure, managing blood sugar for diabetics, providing dietary counseling, and prescribing medications to protect kidney function.