How long can you live with one kidney?
My husband's kidney had to be removed due to an infection. We're obviously worried about his health going forward. Can someone live a normal life with just one kidney, and for how long?
My husband's kidney had to be removed due to an infection. We're obviously worried about his health going forward. Can someone live a normal life with just one kidney, and for how long?
You can live a completely normal and long life with just one kidney, but you must be careful with your diet. Avoid eating too much high-protein or highly salted food to keep the single kidney from working too hard. Stick to fresh, home-cooked vegetarian meals and stay well hydrated.
From what I see in the clinic, a single healthy kidney is more than enough to filter all the blood in your body. Your life expectancy remains exactly the same as anyone else's. Just make sure to avoid taking strong painkillers like NSAIDs without a doctor's prescription.
In my long life, I have known several people who were born with only one kidney and didn't even know it until their old age! You can live a full, beautiful life of eighty or ninety years easily. Just avoid bad habits and take care of your general health.
I know how scary it feels when you first find out you have to live with only one kidney. I used to feel so anxious about every little ache or pain in my back. But trust me, as time passes, you realize you are completely normal and can live a long, happy life.
I donated my kidney to my brother fifteen years ago, and I am living a perfectly healthy, active life today. My best advice is to get a simple urine test and kidney function test done once a year just to be safe, and always stay hydrated throughout the day.
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Managing your health with one kidney is very doable, but it requires a bit of cautious lifestyle planning. Much like managing my PCOS, keeping your weight and blood pressure under control is very important to protect your kidney health. Stay positive and do regular checkups.
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