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Can i live with one kidney?
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Kidney & Urinary Health
Question #11960
329 days ago
518

Can i live with one kidney?

Kabir

I am pretty stressed about my health right now. A few weeks ago, I went to the doctor because I was feeling really tired all the time, thought it was just my busy life. But they found out that I have a kidney disease, and now they are saying I might need to have one kidney removed. I’ve been doing my own research, and I keep coming across stuff saying "Can I live with one kidney?" like it’s a normal thing. I mean, I always thought kidneys were super important, but now I'm honestly freaking out. Like, how does your body even manage with just one? I’ve heard stories from people saying they are totally fine, but then there are also horror stories about life changes. What’s the deal? Can I live with one kidney and be okay? Can my other kidney keep up with everything? What about exercise, diet, life expectancy? What if that one kidney fails too someday? Will I have to go on dialysis or something? I’m trying to stay positive but there’s just so many questions spinning in my head. Anyone here been through something similar?

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Doctors' responses

Yes, you can live with one kidney and often lead a normal, healthy life. The human body is pretty resilient, and many people live long, healthy lives with just one kidney. Your remaining kidney will adapt and can handle the increased workload. Some people are even born with one kidney and never realize it until much later in life. That being said, there are some important considerations to keep in mind if you’re facing this situation. Regarding exercise, your body will generally handle physical activity well, but it’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor about specific types of exercise to ensure you’re not overtaxing your body, especially in the early stages post-surgery. A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet is essential. Make sure to keep your dietary protein intake moderate and drink enough fluids to keep that kidney in good condition. Avoiding excessive salt and staying hydrated will be beneficial as well. Life expectancy for people living with one kidney tends to be comparable to those with two, assuming there are no other serious health issues. As for concerns about the remaining kidney failing, while it’s a valid worry, it’s relatively rare if you follow the right precautions and have regular medical check-ups to monitor kidney function. If you ever do face significant problems with your remaining kidney, medical interventions like dialysis or possibly a transplant could become necessary, but that scenario is uncommon with proper care. Keep communicating openly with your healthcare team, as they will be your best resource for addressing any concerns specific to your condition and helping you form a comprehensive care plan.

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