Nephrology & Hypertension Associates

At Nephrology & Hypertension Associates in Columbia, Missouri, our mission is to provide exceptional, patient-centered care for individuals facing kidney-related and hypertensive challenges. We are dedicated to delivering comprehensive services that encompass prevention, diagnosis, and advanced treatment options.

About Us

Our team of experienced specialists are committed to fostering a compassionate and collaborative environment, where patients are actively involved in their healthcare journey.

Through personalized care plans and a focus on education and support, we strive to enhance the well-being of our patients, optimizing kidney health, managing hypertension, and improving overall quality of life. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community well-being, we aim to be a trusted partner in our patients’ health, providing the highest standard of care with integrity, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of medical excellence.

What makes NHA different?

Together, Dr. Winkelmeyer, Dr. Watson, Dr. Brooks, Dr. Hamlett and Board Certified Nurse Practitioner Leslie Prosser have over 65 years of Nephrology experience. Long-time members of the local community, Leslie, along with Dr. Winkelmeyer, Dr. Watson and Dr. Brooks, all studied medicine at the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. Our providers travel to many outlying clinics across the Mid-Missouri offering convenient access to Nephrology services, limiting patient travel time to see a nephrologist.

Why wait longer to find answers?

FAQs

What is nephrology?
Nephrology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the kidneys including the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases.

Symptoms can vary and some patients may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages of kidney disease. Symptoms may include swelling in the legs and ankles, fatigue, changes in urination, nausea, and high blood pressure.

Hypertension can be caused by genetic factors, poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, stress, and chronic conditions like diabetes and kidney disease.

Kidney function is tested through blood tests (e.g., serum creatinine, glomerular filtration rate) and urine tests (e.g., urine protein).
Kidney disease can cause hypertension by affecting the kidneys’ ability to regulate blood pressure. Conversely, hypertension can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney disease.
Lifestyle changes include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress can help manage hypertension.
Common medications include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. You should consult your health provider before starting any new medication.
Chronic Kidney Disease may be managed or slowed with treatment, but chronic damage is irreversible.
If you have high blood pressure, it’s recommended to have routine blood work at least once a year or as advised by your healthcare provider.
Dialysis is a treatment that filters the blood and helps removes waste products and excess fluid when the kidneys are no longer able to function properly. It is needed in patients with advanced kidney failure.
Every patient is different, and typically dietary changes are recommended based on the specific patient and their needs. Some dietary changes may include reducing fluid, protein, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake. It is important that you discuss any dietary changes with your healthcare provider to see what is best for you before making any changes.
Hypertension cannot usually be cured, but it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medications.
Untreated hypertension can lead to serious health issues, including heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss.
Some over-the-counter pain medications, especially NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), can be harmful to the kidneys. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Preventative measures include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive use of medications that can harm the kidneys. Regular check-ups are also important.

Testimonials

Vickie Combs
10 months ago
Dr Prosser has treated me and my husband alot and Megan is so good and treats us great. They have done so much for our health. The lady that calls us to remind us to get our blood test is great. I would sent any one of my family to Dr.Prosser. We thank them very much.
Sondra Gray
a month ago
excellent staff, very helpful