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Kidney & Urinary Health
Question #13622
2 days ago
18

removal of kidney - #13622

Shaurya

I am really stressed about my recent diagnosis. I went to see my doctor after having some weird pain in my back and side, right? Turns out they think I might need a removal of kidney due to some serious issues with it. They mentioned something about cysts and potential stones. Like, I can’t believe it, a removal of kidney?! I thought I was just dealing with some minor issues. I’ve got a million questions running through my mind, like what happens after the removal of kidney? Will I have to change my diet, or can I still drink coffee? And, what about recovery time? I’m a bit of a workaholic and don’t know how long I’ll be out of commission. Plus, I keep worrying if there are risks or complications with the removal of kidney, ya know? And how will this affect my overall health in the long run? I’m only in my 30s and never thought I’d be facing something like this. I just want to make sure I am making the right decision and hearing from others who have maybe gone through the same will help. Any advice or experiences you can share about the removal of kidney would be a lifesaver. Thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

Facing the prospect of removing a kidney, or nephrectomy, can certainly provoke many questions and concerns. The decision to remove a kidney commonly arises from issues like non-functioning kidneys caused by cysts, stones, or sometimes tumors. Remember, humans can function quite well with just one healthy kidney, so after surgery, most people lead full, active lives. Regarding lifestyle adjustments, yes, changes will often be necessary, particularly concerning diet. While you’ll still be able to enjoy coffee, moderation is key. You’ll need to maintain a diet that’s easy on the remaining kidney - this often means lower sodium, balanced protein intake, and staying hydrated without overdoing it on alcohol or caffeine. Recovery from a kidney removal surgery generally takes about 4 to 8 weeks, depending on whether it’s done laparoscopically or through open surgery. During this time, lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities should be avoided; dedicating time to recovery can actually ensure a swifter return to work later on. As for potential complications, as with any major surgery, the risks include infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia, but these are closely monitored by your medical team. In the long-run, many people live normal lives post-nephrectomy, but monitoring your overall kidney health becomes crucial. Regular follow-ups with your doctor and possibly working with a nephrologist will help keep track of your kidney function and manage your long-term health effectively. Making this decision will require weighing all these factors with your healthcare professionals to confidently proceed knowing you’re well-informed.

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