If you or a loved one is dealing with kidney-related symptoms—such as swelling of the legs, foamy urine, high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, reduced urine output, repeated urinary infections, or abnormal kidney test results—meeting a qualified kidney specialist (nephrologist) can make a real difference.
Dr. Md. Afzalul Bashar is a Kidney (Nephrology) & Medicine Specialist in Khulna with MBBS, BCS (Health), and MD (Nephrology) qualifications and 15 years of clinical experience. He serves as an Assistant Professor of Nephrology and is associated with Shaheed Shaikh Abu-Naser Specialized Hospital, Khulna.
Kidney problems often develop silently. Many patients feel “mostly fine” until the disease becomes advanced. That’s why early evaluation, correct interpretation of reports, and consistent follow-up are so important—especially for people living with diabetes or high blood pressure (প্রেশার).
This profile will help you understand:
- what kinds of kidney and medicine-related conditions Dr. Bashar commonly sees,
- when you should consult a nephrology specialist,
- how to prepare for your visit, and
- how to book an appointment.
Why nephrology care matters
Kidney health is becoming a major public health concern across Bangladesh. One major reason is the rising number of people living with diabetes and hypertension, two leading drivers of chronic kidney disease (CKD). According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Bangladesh’s adult diabetes prevalence is estimated at 13.2% in 2024, representing about 13.9 million adults (20–79 years) living with diabetes. (International Diabetes Federation)
When diabetes and blood pressure remain uncontrolled, kidney function can decline gradually over years. A 2021 meta-analysis of studies in Bangladesh reported an overall CKD prevalence of around 22.48% (with variation across studies). (PubMed)
This does not mean everyone will develop kidney failure—but it strongly supports the importance of early testing, prevention, and regular follow-up.
About Dr. Md. Afzalul Bashar (Qualifications, role, and trust)
Educational qualifications
Dr. Bashar’s academic background includes:
- MBBS
- BCS (Health)
- MD (Nephrology)
BCS (Health) indicates a Bangladesh Civil Service health cadre background—often associated with structured clinical practice and experience in public healthcare settings. Combined with an MD in nephrology, this creates a strong foundation for managing complex kidney and internal medicine cases.
Designation & department
Dr. Bashar is an Assistant Professor in Nephrology, a role that typically includes both patient care and teaching. For patients, this often means a careful, guideline-based approach—especially for long-term conditions such as CKD, diabetic kidney disease, and hypertension-related kidney problems.
BM&DC registration (patient safety)
Dr. Bashar is registered with BM&DC: A-53302. BM&DC registration is an important patient safety indicator that supports professional accountability and helps patients identify qualified practitioners.
Who should see a kidney (nephrology) specialist?
Many people believe they should see a kidney specialist only when dialysis is needed. In reality, nephrologists help much earlier—often when kidney damage can still be slowed down.
You may benefit from a nephrology consultation if you have any of the following:
1) Abnormal kidney tests
- High serum creatinine
- Low eGFR
- Abnormal urine R/E
- Protein/albumin in urine (UACR/ACR positive)
2) Symptoms that may suggest kidney issues
- Swelling of the legs/face (edema)
- Foamy urine
- Reduced urine output
- Persistent nausea, loss of appetite, or unusual fatigue
- Shortness of breath (especially with swelling)
- Uncontrolled blood pressure despite medicines
3) High-risk conditions
- Diabetes (even if you feel well)
- High blood pressure
- Repeated urinary infections
- Family history of kidney disease
- Long-term or frequent use of painkillers (NSAIDs)
- Older age, obesity, or heart disease
If you’re unsure, a simple rule is: If your kidney reports are confusing, or your urine/blood pressure is abnormal, consult early.
Conditions commonly managed in nephrology + medicine care
Dr. Md. Afzalul Bashar’s clinical focus includes kidney diseases and internal medicine concerns that often overlap with kidney health. Patients commonly seek nephrology care for:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
CKD is a gradual decline in kidney function over time. Early stages often have no obvious symptoms, which is why lab tests matter. The goals of CKD care commonly include:
- identifying the likely cause,
- slowing progression,
- controlling blood pressure and diabetes,
- managing anemia and mineral imbalance when needed,
- preventing complications, and
- planning timely follow-ups.
Diabetic kidney disease
Diabetes is a major contributor to kidney damage. In diabetic kidney disease, even small steps—like improving sugar control, controlling blood pressure, and reducing urine albumin—can help protect kidney function.
Hypertension-related kidney problems
High blood pressure can both cause kidney disease and worsen it once it starts. A nephrology visit often focuses on:
- choosing the right BP targets,
- selecting kidney-protective medicines when appropriate,
- adjusting doses based on kidney function, and
- monitoring potassium/creatinine safely.
Protein in urine (albuminuria/proteinuria)
Protein in urine can be an early warning sign, especially in diabetes and hypertension. Proper evaluation helps determine:
- whether it is temporary (e.g., fever/infection) or persistent,
- whether medication or further tests are needed, and
- how frequently to follow up.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
AKI is a sudden drop in kidney function, sometimes triggered by dehydration, infection, severe diarrhea/vomiting, certain medicines, or urinary blockage. AKI needs timely evaluation because kidney function can often improve with early treatment.
Electrolyte imbalance (sodium/potassium problems)
Kidneys regulate electrolytes. When kidney function is low, potassium may rise; with vomiting/diarrhea, electrolytes may fall. Managing electrolytes safely often requires understanding both the kidneys and the whole-body (medicine) picture.
Swelling (edema) and fluid overload
Swelling can occur due to kidney disease, heart disease, liver issues, or protein loss in urine. A kidney specialist helps identify the cause and plan safe treatment, including practical guidance on salt and fluids.
Recurrent urinary infections (kidney-related evaluation)
Repeated infections—especially fever with back pain—can involve the kidneys. Proper treatment, prevention counseling, and targeted investigations can reduce recurrence and protect kidney function.
Kidney stone guidance (when nephrology helps)
Kidney stones are often managed by urology, but nephrology may help with:
- prevention strategies (water intake guidance, salt control),
- metabolic evaluation in recurrent stones, and
- kidney function protection if stones are affecting filtration.
If procedures or surgery are needed, patients are usually referred to urology.
What to expect during your appointment
Many patients feel nervous before seeing a specialist. Here’s what usually happens in a kidney/medicine consultation:
Step 1: Listening to your story
You may be asked about:
- diabetes and blood pressure history,
- urine changes (foam, frequency, burning),
- swelling, breathlessness, fatigue, appetite, sleep,
- current medications (including herbal/over-the-counter),
- past admissions or infections, and
- family history.
Step 2: Focused examination
This may include blood pressure measurement, checking swelling, and a heart/lung examination, depending on your symptoms.
Step 3: Reviewing your reports (very important in nephrology)
Common reports include:
- serum creatinine, urea, eGFR
- urine R/E and urine culture (if needed)
- urine ACR/UACR for albumin
- blood sugar tests (FBS/HbA1c) and lipid profile
- ultrasound (KUB), sometimes additional imaging
- electrolytes (sodium, potassium) and CBC (for anemia)
Step 4: A clear plan + follow-up strategy
Good kidney care is often a long-term plan, not a one-time prescription. You should expect:
- explanation in simple language,
- kidney-safe medication planning and dose adjustments when needed,
- lifestyle guidance (salt, water, protein—tailored to your condition),
- only necessary test advice, and
- a follow-up timeline.
Treatment approach patients usually value (safe, realistic, and sustainable)
Kidney care works best when it is practical for real life in Bangladesh—family meals, work schedules, and rural travel included. A patient-first nephrology approach often focuses on:
1) Slowing disease progression
Even if CKD cannot be “fully reversed,” progression can often be slowed by:
- controlling blood pressure and blood sugar,
- reducing urine protein when present,
- avoiding kidney-harming medicines,
- treating infections promptly, and
- maintaining appropriate hydration (not too little, not too much).
2) Preventing complications early
CKD can lead to anemia, bone/mineral problems, electrolyte imbalance, fluid overload, and increased heart risk. Early identification helps prevent emergencies later.
3) Medicine safety (especially for kidney patients)
A key message for families: avoid self-medicating with painkillers for long periods, and be cautious with unverified herbal products. Some can worsen kidney damage or interfere with prescribed medicine.
4) Lifestyle guidance that fits Bangladeshi habits
Simple steps many patients can follow:
- reduce extra salt (table salt, achar, salty snacks)
- avoid frequent processed/packet foods
- manage portion sizes of rice and sweets if diabetic
- monitor BP and sugar regularly
- follow an individualized water plan (avoid “one rule for everyone”)
Important: Diet and fluid advice must be personalized. Patients with swelling or heart issues may need a different plan than patients with kidney stones or dehydration.
When you should seek urgent care (don’t wait for chamber hours)
Most kidney problems can be managed in scheduled visits, but some symptoms require immediate emergency evaluation:
- very low urine output or no urine
- severe shortness of breath
- chest pain
- confusion, fainting, or extreme weakness
- uncontrolled vomiting or severe diarrhea with dehydration
- sudden severe swelling of face/legs
- very high blood pressure with severe headache/blurred vision
- suspected severe infection with high fever and back pain
If these occur, go to the nearest emergency department first.
Chamber information in Khulna (Citizen Lab Doctor & Diagnostic)
Chamber
Citizen Lab Doctor & Diagnostic
Address: 22 KDA Avenue, Islam Tower, Moylapota Mor, Khulna
Visiting Hours: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed: Friday)
Appointment: +8801934-998688
Helpful location cue: Within Khulna city, Moylapota Mor is a common reference point. Ask local transport for “Islam Tower, KDA Avenue, Moylapota.”
Consultation fee
- 1st visit: 800 BDT
- 2nd visit: 600 BDT
Fees can change over time—please confirm during booking.
How to prepare for your first kidney appointment
A nephrology appointment is most effective when you bring the right information. Before visiting Dr. Bashar, try to bring:
Reports and documents
- recent blood and urine tests (even if “normal”)
- ultrasound or imaging reports
- discharge summaries (if hospitalized before)
- previous prescriptions or treatment history
Medication list (very important)
Write down or take photos of:
- diabetes medicines (including insulin doses)
- blood pressure medicines
- painkillers used frequently
- any herbal, homeopathic, or supplement products
Home readings (if available)
- BP readings for the last 7–14 days
- fasting and after-meal blood sugar readings
- body weight changes (rapid gain may suggest fluid retention)
Quick notes to share
- when symptoms started
- what makes them better or worse
- swelling pattern (morning vs evening)
- urine changes (foam, burning, frequency, color)
If you’re coming from a rural area, keep copies of key reports in a folder and bring medicine strips or clear photos—this helps avoid confusion and saves time.
Follow-up visits: why they matter (and how the 2nd visit helps)
Many kidney conditions require follow-up because:
- kidney function can change over weeks/months,
- medicines may need dose adjustment,
- BP targets may need fine-tuning, and
- lab tests must be monitored safely (especially potassium/creatinine).
Your 2nd visit fee (600 BDT) supports a proper follow-up plan—reviewing response to treatment, checking updated reports, and adjusting the next steps. Patients often do better when they follow one clear plan consistently.
FAQs
How do I book an appointment with Dr. Md. Afzalul Bashar in Khulna?
To book a serial, call +8801934-998688. His chamber is at Citizen Lab Doctor & Diagnostic, 22 KDA Avenue, Islam Tower, Moylapota Mor, Khulna. Visiting hours are 3:00 PM–5:00 PM (Closed: Friday). When calling, mention your main problem (e.g., “high creatinine,” “swelling,” “protein in urine,” “diabetes + kidney issue”) so you’re guided correctly.
What kind of patients usually consult Dr. Md. Afzalul Bashar?
Patients commonly visit for kidney and internal medicine problems, such as:
- High creatinine / reduced kidney function (eGFR)
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) follow-up
- Diabetes or high blood pressure affecting kidneys
- Swelling of legs/face, foamy urine, urine abnormalities
- Electrolyte imbalance (e.g., potassium/sodium issues)
- Kidney-related infections or report-based kidney evaluation
I have a kidney report but don’t understand it—can Dr. Bashar review it?
Yes. Many patients come specifically for clear report interpretation and a step-by-step plan. Bring your latest:
- Serum creatinine (and eGFR if available)
- Urine R/E (and urine albumin/protein reports if you have them)
- Blood pressure readings
- Diabetes reports (HbA1c / blood sugar logs) if applicable
Also bring older reports—trend over time often matters more than a single test.
My creatinine is high—what should I do before coming to the chamber?
Don’t panic and don’t self-medicate. A high creatinine can happen for different reasons (dehydration, infection, medicine effects, or kidney disease), so proper evaluation is important.
Before your visit:
- Avoid unnecessary painkillers (especially frequent NSAIDs) unless a doctor advised
- Drink fluids normally (don’t force excessive water if you have swelling/breathlessness)
- Bring all medicine strips/photos and reports
If you have severe breathlessness, confusion, very low urine, or chest pain—seek emergency care first.
When should people with diabetes or high blood pressure see a kidney specialist?
If you have diabetes or high BP, kidney screening is important—even when you feel fine. Consult Dr. Bashar if you have:
- Protein/albumin in urine
- High creatinine or falling eGFR
- Difficult-to-control BP
- Swelling, foamy urine, or abnormal urine tests
Early visits help create a kidney-protection plan and reduce future complications.
I have swelling in my legs/face or foamy urine—does that mean kidney disease?
Swelling (edema) and foamy urine can be kidney-related, but they can also have other causes. Dr. Bashar typically checks:
- Urine protein/albumin
- Kidney function (creatinine/eGFR)
- Blood pressure and diabetes control
- Salt/fluid habits and medication history
Getting checked early is safer than waiting—especially if swelling is increasing.
Can CKD be managed without dialysis?
In many patients, yes—especially in earlier stages. The main goals are:
- Control blood pressure and diabetes
- Reduce urine protein when present
- Avoid kidney-harming medicines
- Treat infections and dehydration promptly
- Follow a practical diet/fluid plan tailored to your stage
Regular follow-up is key because kidney care is often a long-term plan, not a one-time prescription.
Are painkillers or “herbal medicines” risky for kidney patients?
They can be. Frequent use of some painkillers (especially NSAIDs) may worsen kidney function in vulnerable patients. Some herbal or unverified supplements may also harm kidneys or interfere with prescribed medicines.
Best practice: bring everything you take (including home/herbal products) so Dr. Bashar can guide you safely.
What basic food and lifestyle advice helps protect kidneys?
Most kidney-protection plans start with simple, realistic steps:
- Reduce extra salt (table salt, salty snacks, achar)
- Keep BP and sugar under control with regular monitoring
- Maintain a healthy weight and routine walking if medically safe
- Take medicines exactly as advised and attend follow-up visits
Diet and fluid advice should be personalized—your plan may differ depending on swelling, potassium levels, or stage of kidney disease.
When should I go to the emergency instead of waiting for chamber hours?
Go for urgent care if you have:
- Very low urine output / no urine
- Severe breathlessness or chest pain
- Sudden severe swelling of face/legs
- Confusion, fainting, extreme weakness
- Uncontrolled vomiting/diarrhea with dehydration
- Very high BP with severe headache/blurred vision
These situations may need immediate evaluation before routine chamber consultation.
A simple message for families: early action protects kidneys
If your family has diabetes, high blood pressure, or recurring urine problems, don’t wait for severe symptoms. Kidney damage is often silent early on. Even small improvements—steady BP control, better sugar control, reduced salt, and avoiding kidney-harming medicines—can make a meaningful difference over time.