can person survive with one kidney - #12273
I am really worried about my uncle, who just found out he has only one kidney left after he had to have the other removed due to cancer. The doctor said he might face some challenges but didn’t really explain everything to him, which kinda makes me anxious. Like, can a person survive with one kidney? I mean, I know some people live their whole lives fine with just one, but what are the actual risks? He’s 62 and doesn’t have the best health overall. Is it true that can person survive with one kidney if he has to manage his diet and hydration really closely? He’s already cutting back on salt and drinking more water, but I don’t know if that’s enough?? I’ve heard people say your other kidney can kinda compensate for the loss, but does that really mean he’ll have a totally normal life? I just want to understand if we should be super worried or if we can also relax a bit — like, can he still do all the stuff he loves, like fishing and garden work? It feels overwhelming to think about. How can we best support him in this situation?
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Doctors' responses
Yes, a person can survive with one kidney, and in many cases, go on to live a normal, healthy life. The remaining kidney compensates for the lost one by undergoing a process called hypertrophy, where it enlarges and increases its function to handle the workload of two kidneys. While this adaptation is usually quite effective, there are considerations to keep in mind, especially given your uncle’s age and overall health, which may affect how well his body adjusts.
Firstly, it’s crucial to monitor his blood pressure, as high blood pressure can put additional strain on the kidney. It’s great that he’s already reducing salt intake since too much sodium can negatively impact both blood pressure and kidney function. Drinking enough water is important, but he should avoid excessive fluid intake, which can overwhelm the kidney. Aiming for about 2 liters of water a day is typically sufficient, but this can vary based on his specific health conditions and activity level.
Routine kidney function tests, such as checking the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and creatinine levels, will help track how well the kidney is working. These should be discussed and scheduled with his healthcare provider. Moreover, dietary adjustments beyond salt include moderating protein, phosphorus, and potassium intake, especially if any decline in kidney function is evident. Consulting with a dietitian specializing in kidney health could be very beneficial for tailored dietary advice.
Most lifestyle activities like fishing and gardening are often safe and encouraged to promote general well-being, though it’s always good to avoid heavy lifting or activities that could risk injury to the remaining kidney. Watching alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking is vital for kidney health. Finally, be alert for any unusual symptoms such as swelling, unexplained fatigue, or changes in urination, and seek medical advice if these occur.
While it’s normal to feel concerned, especially when facing new medical information, following these guidelines can significantly contribute to your uncle’s health. Staying informed and proactive with medical follow-ups will assist in ensuring he can continue to enjoy many of the activities he loves.
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