Dr. Osvaldo Valenzuela, MD

About Dr. Osvaldo Valenzuela, MD

Dr. Osvaldo Valenzuela, MD is a Nephrology specialist practicing at our clinic in Atlantis, FL, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He brings a wealth of experience to his practice, having earned his medical degree from the University of Chile School of Medicine and then completing extensive residency and fellowship training in Nephrology at Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center. Dr. Valenzuela is Board Certified in Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, ensuring patients receive the most current and effective medical care.

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 serving all ages, and I am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (772) 732-2139 to schedule an appointment. As a nephrologist in Atlantis, FL, Dr. Valenzuela is affiliated with HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, and he is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. He understands the importance of compassionate care and is committed to empowering patients to take an active role in their health journey, aligning with FKP's mission to improve people's lives with kidney disease and hypertension. Dr. Valenzuela offers consultations in Spanish.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Osvaldo Valenzuela addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Renal Hyperparathyroidism: Renal hyperparathyroidism develops when chronic kidney disease affects the body's ability to regulate calcium and phosphorus, resulting in increased parathyroid hormone levels.
• Tuberous Sclerosis: Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic disorder that can cause tumors to grow in various parts of the body, including the kidneys.
• Congenital Cystic Kidney Disease: Congenital cystic kidney disease means a person is born with cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in their kidneys.
• Renal Osteodystrophy: Renal osteodystrophy affects the bones due to mineral and bone metabolism imbalances caused by kidney failure.
• Congenital Renal Agenesis and Dysgenesis: Babies with this condition have kidneys that are either absent or don't work correctly because they didn't develop normally in the womb.
• Hyperparathyroidism: Hyperparathyroidism is a condition where your parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone, potentially affecting your calcium and bone health.
• Systemic Vasculitis: Systemic vasculitis is a condition where the body's immune system attacks the blood vessels, potentially causing inflammation and damage.
• Amyloidosis: Amyloidosis is a condition where abnormal proteins build up in organs, potentially causing damage over time.
• Alkalosis: Alkalosis is a condition where your blood is too alkaline (less acidic than normal).
• Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD): ADPKD is a hereditary condition where cysts grow in your kidneys, often leading to chronic kidney disease and the need for dialysis or transplant.
• Phosphorus Metabolism Disorders: Phosphorus metabolism disorders affect how your body handles phosphorus, potentially leading to problems with your bones, kidneys, and other organs.
• Hypokalemia: Hypokalemia means you have a lower than normal level of potassium in your blood.

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

• End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services: This category includes all the medical care needed when kidney failure is so advanced that dialysis or a kidney transplant is necessary.
• 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.
• Kidney Transplant Evaluation: The kidney transplant evaluation process assesses your medical history, current health status, and suitability for transplantation.
• Living Kidney Donor Evaluation: This process assesses your overall health and suitability to donate a kidney, ensuring your safety and well-being.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: With peritoneal dialysis, a special fluid is placed in your belly, absorbs waste and extra fluid, and is then drained out.
• Renal Scan: This imaging test helps determine if your kidneys are filtering waste effectively and identifies potential blockages.
• Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to visualize your kidneys and nearby structures, assisting in the diagnosis of kidney-related issues.

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

What is a Nephrologist?

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

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Osvaldo Valenzuela?

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

Does Dr. Osvaldo Valenzuela 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 Dr. Osvaldo Valenzuela's role in kidney transplantation?

Dr. Valenzuela plays a crucial role in kidney transplantation, managing patients' overall health from evaluation for candidacy to long-term care after the transplant. He assesses patients' suitability, manages their health while awaiting a donor kidney, and provides essential post-transplant care to ensure the success and longevity of the new kidney.

What are electrolyte disorders?

Electrolyte disorders involve imbalances of essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium. The kidneys are crucial for regulating these minerals, and nephrologists specialize in diagnosing and treating these imbalances, which can arise from kidney disease or other medical conditions.

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 done at home.

Why do I have anemia with my kidney disease?

Kidney disease can cause anemia because the kidneys don't make enough erythropoietin, a hormone that helps the body produce red blood cells. Our nephrologists manage this with iron supplements and medications that stimulate EPO production.

What is dialysis?

Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment that performs the function of the kidneys when they have failed. It works by removing waste products and excess fluid from the blood, and there are different types, including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.