Rohan Bhatia Rohan Bhatia Asked 5 months ago

What happens when one kidney stops working?

My aunt was born with only one functional kidney, and she's always been told to take care of it. What would happen if her one working kidney stops functioning? Is it possible to live normally with just one kidney?

6

6 answers

Priya Sharma Priya Sharma Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago
Most liked

Actually, one healthy kidney can often do the job of two. Our body is amazing at adapting.

Rajesh Kumar Rajesh Kumar Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago

Dekho, if one kidney stops working, the other one usually picks up the slack. But you have to take good care of that one healthy kidney, understand?

Anjali Mehta Anjali Mehta Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

I remember panicking when I heard about someone having only one functioning kidney. But then I learned that people live totally normal, healthy lives with just one, as long as it's healthy. Just needs regular check-ups.

Powered by

Consult a nephrologist

Meera Gopal Meera Gopal Joined May 2026 5 months ago

I totally get why you'd be asking this. It's a big concern. From what I've heard and seen, the other kidney usually tries its best to manage everything, but regular monitoring is super important.

Amit Sharma Amit Sharma Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

Basically, the other kidney takes over. Your body is designed to manage this, but you absolutely need to consult a nephrologist to monitor kidney function and ensure proper care of the healthy one.

Related reads

All articles
Sanjay Singh Sanjay Singh Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

It can be really scary to think about, na? But doctors say the remaining kidney often compensates. Still, it's a big emotional thing to process, take your time and talk to your doc.

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.