can one survive with one kidney - #13641
I am really worried about my brother… he just had a surgery to remove one kidney because of some issues they found last month. He’s only 30 and I’m freakin out thinking about whether or not can one survive with one kidney. It’s just, you hear all these stories and I keep asking myself, can one survive with one kidney and still live a normal life? After the removal, the doctors said most people do just fine, but I can't shake this anxiety. He’s been doing okay since the surgery, but he feels some fatigue and I wonder if that’s normal. I mean, if can one survive with one kidney, then why is he tired? Are there specific things he should be doing to take care of the remaining kidney? Like should he change his diet or avoid certain activities? I read online that maybe you can even live a healthier life with just one kidney, but I have no clue what that means. Any advice on how can one survive with one kidney long term? Just feels scary, and I want to help him but don’t know how. Any tips or insights would be really appreciated, thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Living with one kidney is actually quite common, and many people go on to live healthy, full lives after such a surgery. Your brother should generally be able to live a normal life, but there are indeed a few things to keep in mind to help take care of the remaining kidney. First, regarding the fatigue he’s experiencing, it’s not unusual after surgery. The body is going through significant recovery and adjustment during the first few weeks, so, it can be quite normal to feel more tired than usual. However, if this continues or worsens, it’s wise to consult with his doctor, just to rule out complications or other health issues.
In terms of lifestyle, it’s crucial for him to stay hydrated, but not excessively. Drinking plenty of water helps kidney function, but avoiding dehydration is the key. A balanced diet that’s low in salt, avoiding processed foods, and maintaining overall a healthy weight are important. Ensuring adequate protein intake without overdoing it can be a way to reduce kidney strain, but it’s best to follow personalized guidance from a dietitian. Regular checkups with the healthcare provider will help monitor kidney function over time.
Regular exercise within comfort limits is helpful—activities like walking, biking, swimming are generally good options. High-impact sports that might risk trauma to the remaining kidney should be approached cautiously and discussed with a healthcare provider. Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and monitor blood pressure—these steps are fundamental as they help in maintaining kidney health.
It’s true that sometimes people with only one kidney become more conscious about their health, leading to healthier lifestyle choices. It’s a good idea to encourage your brother to have regular follow-ups with his healthcare team, and keep track of any new or unusual symptoms in case they need attention.
None of this can guarantee perfect health, of course, but these steps can certainly help one survive and thrive with just one kidney. Being proactive about health can lead to improved outcomes, and your support and encouragement can make a big difference in helping him adopt these healthy habits.
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