can a person survive with one kidney - #19887
I am super worried about my dad. He just found out that he has to have one of his kidneys removed due to a tumor. I mean, it sounds like a pretty big deal, right? I keep hearing different things from people about whether he’ll be okay after this. Like, can a person survive with one kidney? I know people do, but what does that even mean for him in the long run? He’s healthy otherwise and doesn’t have any other health issues, but I can't help but think about the what-ifs, you know? My friend’s brother lost a kidney in a car accident a few years ago, and he’s doing fine now, but I guess every case is different. Can a person survive with one kidney and live a normal life? Will he have to change his diet, or are there specific things he should avoid? Sometime I feel like I've read too much online, and now I just have all these questions swarming in my head. Like, can a person survive with one kidney but still be active? Will my dad be able to do everything he loves again? Just feeling kinda lost right now, and I really hope the doctors say he’ll adjust just fine.
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Doctors' responses
Yes, a person can survive with just one kidney and live a relatively normal life. Many people actually live with one kidney due to congenital issues, having donated a kidney, or having it removed due to illness, like in your dad’s case. Generally, one healthy kidney can take over the work of two. The remaining kidney can increase in size and function to help compensate, though it’s important to keep track of his kidney function and overall health through regular medical check-ups. He should not need to make major lifestyle changes if he adapts well. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated is crucial. Some degree of reduction in salt, protein, and alcohol intake may be advised to reduce kidney workload, but any dietary adjustments should be discussed with a healthcare provider or a dietitian, as they’re best determined on a case-by-case basis. Engaging in regular exercise remains possible and is beneficial, provided it doesn’t strain his remaining kidney excessively. Any contact sports might need extra caution due to the risk of injury, but this is more of a general precaution. Long-term, as long as no complications develop, your dad should be able to continue most of his favorite activities and lead an active lifestyle. However, it’s smart to avoid over-the-counter medications, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can stress the kidney. Any persistent symptoms or new concerns should be addressed with his healthcare team promptly to ensure ongoing kidney health.
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