Dr. Javier Alfonso, MD

About Dr. Javier Alfonso, MD

Dr. Javier Alfonso, MD is a Nephrology specialist practicing at our Miami, FL clinic, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and adheres to Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Born in Cuba and raised in Miami, Dr. Alfonso's extensive medical journey includes education and training in Miami, the Dominican Republic, and San Antonio, culminating in a fellowship in Transplant Nephrology from the University of Colorado. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and his expertise encompasses the full spectrum of kidney health, from diagnosis and management of chronic kidney disease and hypertension to dialysis and kidney transplantation.

Dr. Alfonso provides 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. He serves all ages, and is committed to evidence-based medicine. Dr. Alfonso earned his medical degree from Universidad Central Del Este Escuela De Medicina and completed a residency in Nephrology at UTHSCSA, followed by fellowship training at the University of Colorado. His dedication to patient care, combined with his extensive training and certification, makes him a valuable resource for comprehensive kidney health management. We are currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (786) 703-4932. Dr. Alfonso offers consultations in Spanish.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Javier Alfonso addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Congenital Renal Agenesis and Dysgenesis: This condition, present from birth, involves problems with kidney structure or function due to incomplete development.
• Hepatitis B - Immune Response: Your body's immune system is reacting to the hepatitis B virus.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage IV: With a Chronic Kidney Disease Stage IV diagnosis, your kidneys are losing their ability to filter waste effectively, necessitating careful medical attention.
• Ureteral Stones: Painful kidney stones can get stuck in the ureter, the tube draining urine from the kidneys, leading to urinary obstruction and requiring medical attention.
• Magnesium Metabolism Disorders: Magnesium metabolism disorders affect how your body uses and processes magnesium, which can lead to various health problems.
• Kidney Infection: A kidney infection can cause pain, fever, and other symptoms.
• Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in joints.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage III: You have moderate chronic kidney disease (stage 3), meaning some kidney function is lost, and monitoring and management are necessary.
• Nephritis and Nephropathy: Kidney damage can be categorized as nephritis (inflammation) or nephropathy (a wider range of diseases), both impacting kidney health and function.
• Vascular Disease: Vascular disease in the kidneys can affect blood flow and kidney function.
• Hypokalemia: Hypokalemia means you have a lower than normal level of potassium in your blood.
• Hydronephrosis: Hydronephrosis is the enlargement of your kidneys due to a blockage in the urinary tract preventing normal urine flow.

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

• Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy: Unlike standard dialysis, CRRT runs constantly, providing gentler and more consistent blood purification.
• End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services: End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) services encompass the treatment and management of kidney failure requiring life-sustaining therapies.
• 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: A thorough evaluation is done to see if you are a good candidate for a kidney transplant and to minimize risks.
• Living Kidney Donor Evaluation: The living kidney donor evaluation involves comprehensive medical tests to determine if you can safely donate a kidney.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: With peritoneal dialysis, a special fluid is placed in your belly, absorbs waste and extra fluid, and is then drained out.
• Plasmapheresis: Plasmapheresis is a procedure that removes harmful substances from your blood.
• Renal Scan: This test uses radioactive material to check blood flow and function within your kidneys.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound is a painless test that uses sound waves to create images of your kidneys and other organs.

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

What is a Nephrologist?

A nephrologist is a doctor specializing in kidney diseases. They are experts in managing conditions like chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances, and provide care for patients on dialysis or who have had a kidney transplant.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Javier Alfonso?

Your first visit with Dr. Alfonso will involve a comprehensive review of your medical history, a detailed discussion of any kidney-related symptoms you're experiencing, and a physical exam. Please bring a complete list of all medications, and any recent lab results or imaging reports to help us provide the best possible care.

Does Dr. Javier Alfonso accept my insurance?

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

What's the difference between hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis?

Hemodialysis uses a machine to filter blood, typically done at a dialysis center. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) uses the lining of the abdomen to filter blood, often performed at home. Both methods effectively manage kidney function.

Why do I have anemia with my kidney disease?

Kidney disease often leads to anemia because the damaged kidneys produce less erythropoietin, a hormone needed for red blood cell production. Our nephrologists can manage this with iron supplements and medications that stimulate EPO 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 to be examined under a microscope. It's the most definitive way to diagnose specific kidney diseases like glomerulonephritis and to guide the most appropriate treatment plan.

What is Dr. Javier Alfonso's role in kidney transplantation?

Dr. Alfonso plays a crucial role in kidney transplantation, managing patients' overall health throughout the process. He evaluates patients for transplant candidacy, monitors their health while on the waiting list, and provides ongoing care after the transplant to ensure the new kidney functions optimally.

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. Dr. Alfonso's goal is to identify the cause and use treatments, often blood pressure medications, to reduce the leakage and protect your kidneys.