What Do the Kidneys Do and Why Are They Important
The kidneys play a vital role in keeping the body balanced and healthy. They filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which are then removed through urine. The kidneys also help regulate blood pressure, maintain healthy electrolyte levels, support red blood cell production, and contribute to strong bones by regulating vitamin D and calcium balance.
When the kidneys are not working as well as they should, these processes can be affected. Over time, this can influence many systems in the body. The good news is that kidney function often declines slowly, which means there is a valuable window of time to identify changes early and take steps to slow or even prevent further damage.
What Is Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic Kidney Disease refers to a gradual loss of kidney function over time. It is typically defined as kidney damage or reduced kidney function lasting three months or longer. CKD is often classified into stages based on how well the kidneys filter blood. Early stages may involve only mild changes, while later stages reflect a more significant loss of function.
Many people with early-stage CKD feel completely normal. Because symptoms often do not appear until the disease is more advanced, routine medical care and regular lab work are essential for early identification.
Common Causes and Risk Factors for CKD
Chronic Kidney Disease can develop for several reasons. The most common causes are diabetes and high blood pressure. Over time, elevated blood sugar or blood pressure can damage the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys, making it harder for them to function properly.
Other risk factors include a family history of kidney disease, heart disease, autoimmune conditions, long-term use of certain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and aging. Smoking, obesity, and high cholesterol can also contribute to kidney strain. Understanding your personal risk factors helps guide appropriate screening and preventive care.
Why Early Detection Matters
Early detection of CKD allows for early intervention, which can make a meaningful difference in long-term kidney health. When kidney disease is identified early, lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, and careful monitoring can help slow progression and reduce complications.
This is where annual wellness exams play a crucial role. During these visits, routine blood and urine tests can reveal subtle changes in kidney function long before symptoms appear. Blood pressure checks, blood sugar monitoring, and cholesterol screening also provide valuable information about overall health and kidney risk. At Cullman Internal Medicine, we view annual wellness exams as a cornerstone of preventive care and early disease detection.
How Chronic Kidney Disease Is Diagnosed
CKD is usually diagnosed using simple, widely available tests. Blood tests measure creatinine levels and estimate glomerular filtration rate, which reflects how well the kidneys are filtering blood. Urine tests can detect protein or albumin, which may signal kidney damage even when kidney function appears normal.
In some cases, imaging studies or additional testing may be recommended to better understand the underlying cause. Diagnosis is not about labeling or alarming patients. It is about gathering information so care can be tailored to protect kidney health and overall well-being.
Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
Management of CKD focuses on slowing disease progression and supporting overall health. Treatment plans are individualized and depend on the stage of disease, underlying causes, and each patient’s unique health profile.
Blood pressure control is one of the most important aspects of kidney care. Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range reduces stress on the kidneys. For patients with diabetes, maintaining stable blood sugar levels is equally critical. Medications may be adjusted or prescribed to support kidney function and address contributing conditions.
Nutrition also plays a key role. While dietary needs vary, many patients benefit from balanced meals that support heart and kidney health. Staying hydrated, limiting excess sodium, and focusing on whole foods are common recommendations. Your provider at Cullman Internal Medicine can help guide dietary choices or refer you to a nutrition specialist when needed.
Lifestyle Choices That Support Kidney Health
Healthy lifestyle habits can have a powerful impact on kidney function. Regular physical activity supports blood pressure, blood sugar, and cardiovascular health, all of which are closely linked to kidney health. Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol use also reduce strain on the kidneys.
Medication awareness is another important factor. Some over-the-counter pain relievers can affect kidney function when used frequently or in high doses. Always discuss medications and supplements with your healthcare provider to ensure they are used safely.
The Role of Ongoing Monitoring and Partnership in Care
Living with or being at risk for CKD does not mean facing it alone. Ongoing monitoring allows your healthcare team to track changes over time and adjust care as needed. Regular follow-up visits and lab work help ensure that kidney health remains stable and that any concerns are addressed promptly.
At Cullman Internal Medicine, we believe in a collaborative approach. Education, open communication, and trust are essential parts of effective care. Our team works with patients to create manageable plans that fit into daily life while supporting long-term health goals.
Annual Wellness Exams as a Preventive Tool
Annual wellness exams are one of the most effective tools for preventing and managing Chronic Kidney Disease. These visits allow us to look at the full picture of your health, not just one condition. Early changes in kidney function often appear alongside other health markers, making comprehensive exams especially valuable.
By staying consistent with annual visits, patients give themselves the best opportunity for early detection, timely intervention, and peace of mind. Prevention and early management are always preferable to reactive care.
A Positive and Proactive Approach to Kidney Health
Chronic Kidney Disease does not have to be a frightening diagnosis. With early detection, thoughtful management, and regular medical care, many people live full and active lives while protecting their kidney health. Knowledge empowers patients to make informed decisions and take meaningful steps toward wellness.
At Cullman Internal Medicine, we are committed to guiding our patients with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care. If you have questions about kidney health or want to ensure you are staying on track with preventive screenings, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Bethany is a board-certified family medicine Nurse Practitioner. She grew up in Cullman, watching her father, a physician, and her mother, a nurse, care for patients with both their hearts and hands. She learned from them that not only working hard, but loving and treating patients like family would develop the career that best suited her desire to help others. She has been caring for patients at Cullman Internal Medicine for 25 years. Building long-lasting relationships with her patients is important to her, and she genuinely enjoys being a part of their lives. She strives to provide compassionate, competent medical care which fosters an environment of mutual trust and respect.
Bobi Jo Creel is a board-certified Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ANCC-ACNP) with over 20 years of nursing experience. Born and raised in Cullman County, Alabama, she is deeply committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to adults and seniors in her local community.
Alicia is from Thomasville, Ga, but practiced in Burlington, Iowa from 2017 until joining Cullman Internal Medicine in 2025. Most of Alicia’s experience is in rural primary healthcare, which is where she learned of her passion for caring for patients with diabetes. From 2023 – 2025, her sole focus was assisting individuals in manage their condition more effectively, with a strong emphasis on long-term health and prevention of complications.
Pam is a lifelong resident of Marshall County and a graduate of Albertville High School, Class of 1976. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1981. Pam began her career in emergency and critical care nursing, serving in both the ER and ICU. When Marshall Medical Center North (MMCN) opened in 1990, she became the Nurse Manager of the ICU.
Stacey Varden is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner who works alongside Dr. Jeremy Stidham in Internal Medicine. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and collectively has over 18 years of nursing experience. Before becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she served as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at Children’s of Alabama, where she developed a strong foundation in acute and compassionate patient care.
Lorie Jones is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner born & raised in Cullman, Alabama. Her nursing career began in 1997 after earning her Licensed Practical Nursing diploma from Wallace State Community College, followed by an Associate Degree in Nursing in 2000. She gained extensive clinical experience working at both Woodland Medical Center and Cullman Regional Medical Center before advancing her education to become a nurse practitioner.
Mollie Dockery, MSN, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients of all ages. With over 14 years of nursing experience and two years in advanced practice, Mollie brings a deep understanding of patient needs, especially in managing chronic conditions and promoting preventive health. Her approach is rooted in empathy, education, and a strong commitment to individualized care.
Kristy is known for providing personalized, expert care in Sleep and Lung Health, where she empowers patients thru education, awareness, supportive listening and compassionate guidance. A Cullman native, Kristy is deeply rooted in our community and shares a sincere
With over 15 years of nursing experience, Nancy Cornell is a dedicated and compassionate Family Nurse Practitioner (NP) committed to providing high-quality care to her patients. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2017, she went on to complete her Master’s degree in Nursing in 2022. For two years, Nancy has been a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, applying her expertise in community urgent care to treat a diverse range of health needs.
Clark Still is a Licensed Professional Counselor with Cullman Internal Medicine. Clark is also the founder of New Beginnings Counseling of Cullman. He specializes in Christian-Based Professional Counseling.
Charlie Thornton has spent more than 24 years caring for others in a variety of healthcare roles—including paramedic, registered nurse, and for the past 10 years, nurse practitioner. He began his training at Wallace State Community College, completed his nursing degree at Jacksonville State University, and went on to earn graduate degrees from the University of South Alabama, where he became board certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
Jeremy Stidham, M.D., is a board-certified internal medicine physician who has been caring for patients in Cullman for more than 15 years. He currently serves as President of Cullman Internal Medicine and the Cullman Physician Alliance, where he works alongside a team of dedicated colleagues to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
Nathan is a highly experienced Nurse Practitioner with a rich background spanning over two decades in healthcare. For the past ten years, Nathan has been a vital part of the CIM team as a Nurse Practitioner, also serving as a hospitalist nurse practitioner when needed. His extensive foundation was built over 19 years as a critical care registered nurse. Nathan is an alumnus of Wallace State Community College (RN), Jacksonville State College (BSN), and UAB (MSN), holding his nurse practitioner certification from the ANCC.
Dr. Benjamin Rogers obtained a degree in Classical Studies from Hillsdale College before attending medical school at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. He then completed an internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Wake Forest University. He joined Cullman Internal Medicine in 2012.
Morgan McHugh, CRNP, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a special focus on diabetes management. A native of Hartselle, Alabama, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Dr. Erin Britt is a compassionate physician proudly serving her local community as a hometown provider. Raised in Cullman, Alabama, Dr. Britt graduated from Cullman High School. Her desire to care for others lead to enrollment at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM), where she earned her medical degree.
The goal of my practice is to help patients achieve optimal health. Eating a balanced diet, exercising, taking care of our mental health, and achieving quality sleep are all crucial for feeling good and living a healthy, enjoyable life. However, sometimes weight gain and hormone imbalances can get in the way.
Naykala is a Triple Board-Certified physician with over 25yrs of experience, dedicated to delivering comprehensive patient-centered care. Her practice emphasizes a whole-body approach, combining traditional Internal Medicine with advanced training in Obesity Medicine and Medical Acupuncture. She evaluates complex medical conditions with a focus on identifying root causes–especially those contributing to weight gain—and provides thoughtful, integrative treatment plans. Naykala’s 10 years of service in the U.S. Air Force deepened her commitment to non-pharmacologic pain management, and acupuncture has become a meaningful part of how she cares for patients.
Dr Parker grew up in Cullman County and attended West Point High School. His path to medicine was not direct. After high school, He attended Wallace State Community college and received an associates degree in business. Shortly after graduating Brian was married to his wife Karen. Unsure of what to do next he left his job as a butcher for the local Walmart distribution center where he would work for the next 7 years. After reflecting on his goals and desire to help others he decided to pursue medicine.
Dr. Vintson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician originally from Cullman. She graduated medical school from Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Auburn, AL, and completed residency training at UAB Family Medicine in Huntsville. Dr. Vintson practices medicine seeing the patient as a whole person, understanding there are many components of one’s life that affects overall health and wellness. She loves seeing a variety of patient ages throughout her day and feels this is what makes family medicine and primary care so special. In addition to routine primary care she especially enjoys women’s health and preventative medicine, including Pap smears and menopause care, as well as diabetes management, nutrition, and mental health care. Dr. Vintson loves the Lord and enjoys time on the lake with her family, fishing, hunting, gardening, and podcasts. She has two young children and a loving husband of 12 years.
Dr. Adam Harrison is proud to serve his hometown of Cullman as a dedicated physician. A local from East Elementary through Cullman High, he earned his Biomedical Sciences degree from Auburn University, completed medical school at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and his residency at UAB Huntsville Family Medicine. Drawn by the opportunity to give back to his community, Dr. Harrison chose to build his career at Cullman Internal Medicine.