Dr. James Smart, MD

About Dr. James Smart, MD

Dr. James Smart, MD is a Nephrology specialist dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Smart Jr. specializes in Nephrology and practices in Jacksonville, FL. He practices at 1 location. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in Nephrology care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families, ensuring patient-centered care throughout all stages of kidney health. He earned his medical degree from Augusta University Medical College Of Georgia in 1990 and is Board Certified in Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

I provide comprehensive diagnosis and management of chronic kidney disease, hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, dialysis, and kidney transplantation. My approach to care is rooted in evidence-based medicine, and I am committed to patient education, collaborative decision-making, and providing a supportive, reassuring environment for patients of all ages. I am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (904) 414-2528 to schedule an appointment. Dr. James Smart provides consultations primarily in English.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. James Smart addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Hyposmolality and Hyponatremia: Hyponatremia is low sodium in your blood, and when combined with hyposmolality, it signals that your body's fluid balance is significantly off.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage II: Chronic Kidney Disease Stage II means your kidneys are showing some early signs of damage, but they're still working fairly well.
• Chronic Nephritic Syndrome: With chronic nephritic syndrome, your kidneys' filtering system is constantly inflamed, causing kidney damage that may affect blood pressure and urine composition.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage IV: You have been diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease Stage IV, meaning your kidney function is severely reduced, requiring ongoing medical management to prevent further complications.
• Hepatitis B - Immune Response: Your body's immune system is reacting to the hepatitis B virus.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D deficiency can lead to weak bones and other health problems.
• Renal Osteodystrophy: People with chronic kidney disease can develop renal osteodystrophy, which weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures.
• Vasculitis: Kidney problems can arise from vasculitis, a condition causing inflammation and narrowing of blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the kidneys.
• Classic Polyarteritis Nodosa: Polyarteritis nodosa is a condition where inflammation affects the blood vessels throughout the body.
• Renal Hyperparathyroidism: When your kidneys are damaged, they may not remove enough phosphorus from your blood, causing your parathyroid glands to overwork and produce too much parathyroid hormone.
• Goodpasture: Goodpasture syndrome is a rare condition that affects the lungs and kidneys.
• Congenital Anomalies of Kidney: Children can be born with variations in their kidney structure, known as congenital anomalies, which may or may not require treatment.

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

• Hemodialysis: If your kidneys fail, hemodialysis is a way to remove waste products and excess fluid that would otherwise build up in your body.
• 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: This evaluation helps doctors determine if you meet the health requirements to donate a kidney and to minimize any risks.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: In peritoneal dialysis, a cleansing fluid is infused into your abdominal cavity, filters waste, and is then drained, offering an alternative to hemodialysis.
• 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.
• Drug Testing: Testing for certain drugs is important to ensure your kidney treatment is safe and effective.

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

What is a Nephrologist?

Dr. James Smart and his team are nephrologists, meaning they are medical doctors specializing in kidney diseases. They are experts in managing conditions like chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and 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. James Smart?

During your first visit with Dr. Smart, expect 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. James Smart 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.

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 lead to high blood pressure. Dr. Smart is an expert in managing complex or resistant hypertension, often by addressing kidney-related factors.

How important is diet in managing kidney disease?

Diet is a cornerstone of kidney disease management. A specialized renal diet helps reduce the workload on your kidneys by carefully managing protein, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus levels. Dr. Smart's practice works closely with renal dietitians to support you in developing a personalized plan.

Why would I need a kidney biopsy?

A kidney biopsy is a procedure where a small piece of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. It's the most definitive way to diagnose specific kidney diseases, like glomerulonephritis, and helps guide the best treatment plan.

How is Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) managed?

Dr. Smart's practice manages PKD as a long-term strategy focusing on controlling symptoms and slowing cyst growth. Key elements include strict blood pressure management, pain relief, treatment of urinary tract infections, and discussion of newer medications that may slow disease progression.

What is Dr. James Smart's role in kidney transplantation?

Dr. James Smart is a key part of the kidney transplant team, managing patients' overall health before, during, and after the procedure. He evaluates patients for suitability, monitors their health while on the waiting list, and provides essential long-term care to protect the transplanted kidney.