Dr. Laurie May Andal, DO

About Dr. Laurie May Andal, DO

Dr. Laurie May Andal, DO is a Nephrology specialist dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at the Renal Hypertension Center in Lakewood Ranch, FL. She 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 serve all ages and am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (941) 275-9577 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Laurie May Andal, DO is a nephrologist in Lakewood Ranch, FL, with extensive experience in Glomerulonephritis & Nephropathy. She earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College Of Osteopathic Medicine and is affiliated with HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital. Dr. Andal is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. My approach to care is rooted in evidence-based medicine, with a strong emphasis on patient education and collaborative decision-making. I strive to create a supportive and reassuring environment where patients feel empowered to actively participate in their healthcare journey. Dr. Laurie Andal provides consultations primarily in English.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Laurie Andal addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Viral Hepatitis: Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus.
• Renal Osteodystrophy: People with chronic kidney disease can develop renal osteodystrophy, which weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures.
• Hypertensive Heart and Chronic Kidney Disease: Chronic kidney disease can cause or worsen high blood pressure, leading to damage to the heart and kidneys.
• Kidney Infection: Kidney infection can cause pain, fever, and other symptoms that require medical attention.
• Proteinuria: Your doctor may have found proteinuria, which is extra protein in your pee, possibly showing a problem with your kidneys.
• Rhabdomyolysis: Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where muscle breakdown releases harmful substances into the bloodstream, potentially damaging the kidneys.
• Osteoarthritis of Hip and Thigh: Hip and thigh osteoarthritis causes pain and stiffness in the hip joint.
• Leg and Foot Ulcers: Leg and foot ulcers can be a sign of kidney problems.
• Bedsores: Bedsores are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue that develop when pressure is applied to the skin for a long time.
• Hydronephrosis: Hydronephrosis means your kidneys are swollen because urine is blocked from leaving your body normally.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in the urinary system, which can cause pain and discomfort.
• Herpes Zoster Without Complication: Shingles, without any additional health problems, is affecting you.

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

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG uses small sensors attached to your skin to record your heart's electrical signals, providing a visual representation of its activity.
• End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services: End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services covers medical care for patients whose kidneys have failed and require dialysis or a transplant.
• Hemodialysis: Hemodialysis is a life-saving treatment that uses a machine to filter waste and extra fluid from your blood when your kidneys can't.
• Immunization Administration: Our immunization service provides vaccinations to protect you from preventable diseases.
• 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.
• Removal of Arteriovenous Shunt for Renal Dialysis: The surgeon removed the tube connecting an artery and vein in my arm, which was used for dialysis.
• Arteriovenous Shunt Creation: An arteriovenous shunt is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein in your arm to provide easy access for hemodialysis.

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

What is a Nephrologist?

Dr. Andal and her 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 provide care for patients on dialysis or who have had a kidney transplant.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Laurie Andal?

Your first visit with Dr. Andal 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. Laurie Andal 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.

Why do I have anemia with my kidney disease?

Kidney disease often causes anemia because the damaged kidneys produce less erythropoietin, a hormone that helps the body make red blood cells. Our nephrology team manages this by prescribing iron supplements and medications that stimulate EPO production.

Is it serious to have protein in my urine?

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

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 your abdomen to filter blood, and can often be performed at home.

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 is trained to understand this complex relationship and expertly manage complex or resistant hypertension, often by addressing kidney-related factors.

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 includes medications to reduce inflammation.