Author: Dr. Thomas R. Blake, MD

Kidney Ultrasound in Emergency Cases: When Is It Used?

Kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, maintaining electrolyte balance, and regulating fluid levels in the body. When illness strikes…
What to Know About Portable Kidney Ultrasound Devices

Portable kidney ultrasound devices represent a significant advancement in diagnostic medicine, offering healthcare professionals a convenient and accessible tool for evaluating renal health directly at…
Can Kidney Ultrasound Identify Reflux Nephropathy?

Reflux nephropathy is a significant kidney disease stemming from vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), where urine abnormally flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and potentially…
Can Climate or Location Affect UTI Rates?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, impacting millions of people annually. Often dismissed as a minor inconvenience, UTIs can range from uncomfortable to severely…
What Conditions Mimic Kidney Stones on Ultrasound?

Kidney stones are notoriously painful, and understandably, anyone experiencing flank pain immediately worries about them. Ultrasound is often one of the first imaging techniques used…
Is It Normal to Feel UTI Symptoms After a Negative Culture?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, particularly among women. The burning sensation during urination, frequent urges to go, and that nagging feeling of incomplete…
How Kidney Ultrasound Can Help Diagnose Obstruction

Kidney obstruction, also known as hydronephrosis, occurs when urine cannot drain properly from one or both kidneys. This blockage can be caused by a variety…
What Does a UTI Look Like on a Microscopic Urinalysis?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections, affecting millions annually. Often presenting with uncomfortable symptoms like frequent urination, burning sensations, and…
Can You See Inflammation With a Kidney Ultrasound?

Inflammation is a fundamental part of the body’s defense system, a complex biological response triggered when tissues are injured or infected. It’s essentially your immune…
How to Keep a Symptom Diary for UTIs

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, affecting millions of people each year. They can range from mildly irritating to severely debilitating, making daily life…