Dr. Craig Shapiro, MD

About Dr. Craig Shapiro, MD

Dr. Craig Shapiro, MD is a Nephrology specialist dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at his Jacksonville, FL clinic. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Shapiro has extensive experience in Nephrological Conditions and is affiliated with HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. He earned his medical degree from Seton Hall University and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments, and is committed to ensuring patient well-being throughout all stages of kidney health.

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. Dr. Shapiro serves all ages and is committed to delivering compassionate care. He specializes in Nephrology and practices in Fernandina Beach, FL. Dr. Craig Shapiro provides consultations primarily in English. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shapiro, please call (904) 385-2823.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Craig Shapiro addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Acute Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli (tiny filtering units in the kidneys) in acute glomerulonephritis can result in kidney damage and various other health problems.
• Diabetes With Renal Manifestations: Diabetic nephropathy is kidney damage caused by long-term diabetes.
• Alkalosis: Alkalosis is a condition where your blood is too alkaline (less acidic than normal).
• Renal Osteodystrophy: Renal osteodystrophy is a bone disease that develops in people with long-term kidney problems.
• Renal Artery Arteriosclerotic Disease: With renal artery arteriosclerotic disease, the blood vessels leading to your kidneys become stiff and narrow, potentially damaging kidney function.
• End-Stage Renal Disease: With ESRD, your kidneys are so damaged that they can't remove waste products from your blood effectively, necessitating dialysis or transplantation.
• Chronic Glomerulonephritis: Chronic glomerulonephritis is a long-term kidney disease where inflammation damages the glomeruli, the filtering units of your kidneys.
• Hydronephrosis: Hydronephrosis is the enlargement of your kidneys due to a blockage in the urinary tract preventing normal urine flow.
• Secondary Renovascular Hypertension: Your high blood pressure is due to narrowed or blocked arteries supplying your kidneys, a condition called secondary renovascular hypertension.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage V: With Chronic Kidney Disease Stage V, your kidneys are functioning at less than 15% of their normal capacity, necessitating immediate medical intervention.
• Kidney Stones: Kidney stones can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing underlying medical conditions.
• Amyloidosis: Amyloidosis is a condition where abnormal proteins build up in organs, potentially causing damage over time.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Craig Shapiro 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. Craig Shapiro offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Hemodialysis: Hemodialysis is a type of dialysis that removes waste and excess fluid from your blood through a process of filtration and diffusion.
• Kidney Transplant Evaluation: Kidney transplant evaluation involves tests and assessments to determine if you're a suitable candidate for a kidney transplant.
• Living Kidney Donor Evaluation: This process assesses your overall health and suitability to donate a kidney, ensuring your safety and well-being.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis is a type of kidney dialysis where a cleansing fluid is washed through a catheter in your abdomen to remove waste products.
• Renal Scan: A renal scan uses a special dye to create images of your kidneys, showing how well they're working.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of your kidneys, helping doctors assess their size, shape, and blood flow.
• Diabetic Evaluation: This evaluation helps determine the extent of diabetes-related damage to your kidneys and other organs.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Craig Shapiro. 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. Craig Shapiro:

What is a Nephrologist?

Dr. Shapiro is a nephrologist, a doctor specializing in kidney diseases. He is skilled in managing conditions like chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances, and provides care for patients on dialysis or who have undergone a kidney transplant.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Craig Shapiro?

Your first visit with Dr. Shapiro 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. Craig Shapiro accept my insurance?

Dr. Shapiro's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly to verify your insurance coverage for nephrology services.

Why do I have anemia with my kidney disease?

Healthy kidneys produce a hormone that tells your body to make red blood cells. When kidney function is impaired, less of this hormone is produced, leading to anemia. Your nephrologist can manage this with iron supplements and medications that stimulate red blood cell production.

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 like glomerulonephritis and helps guide the best treatment plan.

What is glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the tiny filters in your kidneys, called glomeruli. It can be caused by various factors, such as infections or autoimmune diseases. Treatment often involves medications to reduce inflammation.

What is Dr. Craig Shapiro's role in kidney transplantation?

Dr. Shapiro plays a vital role in kidney transplantation, managing patients' overall health before, during, and after the procedure. He evaluates candidacy, monitors health while on the waiting list, and provides essential long-term care to ensure the success and longevity of the transplanted kidney.

Is it serious to have protein in my urine?

Having protein in your urine, or proteinuria, can be a sign of early kidney damage, meaning the kidney's filters are leaky. A nephrologist will work to identify the cause and use treatments, often blood pressure medications, to reduce the leakage and protect your kidneys.