Kidneys are the natural filtration system of your body. They remove waste elements from your blood.

But what happens if one kidney continues functioning at a normal pace, but the other one doesn’t? Or, you have to get one of your kidneys separated from your body for some reason or the other?

Can you live with one kidney? Ever wondered if this is possible? Sounds scary, isn’t it?

Living with just one kidney may seem unbelievable, but it is a reality for many people.

Many have to live with one kidney due to certain conditions. However, one kidney is enough to lead a healthy life as well.

Wondering how your body can function properly with just one kidney? Mykare Health will give you an insight into how that is possible.

Reasons For Living With One Kidney

Why does a person have to live with one kidney? There are certain reasons for the same. Let’s discuss them before we dive into the hows.

• Kidney donation: A person may have donated one of their kidneys to someone who needed a kidney transplant. The donor needs to have healthy kidneys in order to donate them.

After the transplant, the person will have one full functioning kidney. So, transplant will not affect their health. The other kidney will be functioning well in the recipient’s body.

• Surgical removal of kidneys: It is also known as nephrectomy. Certain medical conditions can lead to the surgical removal of one of the kidneys. It can be due to tumors, kidney infections, or other complications that could hamper the kidney functions.

When one kidney is removed, the other one takes over the whole function. It maintains the needed activities and keeps the body healthy.

• Born with one kidney: In some cases, a person might have been born with just one kidney. This condition can be called renal agenesis. However, this condition does not affect one’s health.

In some other cases, a person can be born with both the kidneys but only one of them functions. This condition is called kidney dysplasia.

Living With One Kidney: What Do You Need To Consider?

Kidney Function Monitoring

Living with one kidney needs monitoring and proper management. It is important for you to track the overall functioning and health. So, regular checkups and tests are important.

Healthcare professionals do many tests to check the efficiency of the kidney. Any potential issue with the kidney can be detected and treated early with these regular checkups.

It is important to be aware of any signs of potential risks. Colour change in urine, frequency of urination, any sort of pain or discomfort in kidneys are all signs that need attention. These symptoms should be addressed immediately.

Healthy Diet And Hydration

Maintaining a healthy diet is important if you’re living with one kidney. A diet including fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains are suggested. It supports the overall health of the body. It also helps the kidney in performing its functions well.

Hydration is a crucial element for kidney health. Proper intake of water will help in controlling the volume of blood. Hydration helps in the kidney’s filtration process. Also, it prevents the kidney from developing kidney stones.

So, a healthy diet and hydration are the key to support the functioning of the single kidney.

Adjustments In Lifestyle

Having a single kidney also demands certain changes in your lifestyle. Exercising regularly is important for kidney health. It contributes to the overall health as well.

Daily exercise has many benefits. It can control blood pressure level and helps in better cardiovascular health. Exercise also helps in managing weight.

Maintaining a healthy weight is significant for a healthy kidney. A balanced diet and regular exercise can achieve that. By keeping a healthy weight, your body can easily adapt to function with a single kidney.

These changes in lifestyle can have long term benefits to your health. The positive changes can help you adjust to living a normal life with a single kidney. It can also increase your overall well being.

Debunking The Myths

You might have heard about some common myths related to living with one kidney. Let’s take a look at them.

Myth: A person needs two kidneys to live

Well, this statement is definitely not true. An individual can live a normal and healthy life with just one kidney. Your one kidney will perform the tasks of both the kidneys, so there is no need to worry.

Myth: Donating a kidney can shorten your life

This statement is not true either. Most kidney donors have not faced any complications after donating their kidney. They can live a healthy life after proper care and so can the recipient.

Myth: People with one kidney cannot maintain an active lifestyle

Kidney donors can go back to their normal lifestyle after post care following the procedure. They can participate in their normal routine and exercises without any issue. So, this statement is also misleading.

People who were born with or surgically removed one kidney can also engage in normal activities. It will not affect their kidneys or their health.

Living A Full Life With One Kidney: Practical Tips

You can live a healthy and vibrant life with just one kidney. Here are some tips to thrive with a single kidney.

• Regular health checkups: It is important to consult with your doctor regularly. Thus, you can ensure the kidney functions are running smoothly.

• Hydration and diet: Staying hydrated and having a balanced, healthy diet is also a key to a healthy kidney.

• Managing weight and pressure: Engage in physical activities to maintain weight. Blood pressure level should be monitored constantly. It will otherwise negatively impact kidney health.

• Educate yourself: Individuals who live with a single kidney should be aware about all the aspects related to their kidney health. Avoid anything that could be a potential risk to your kidneys. Be aware of the limitations and follow the instructions of your doctor thoroughly.

• Manage stress: Stress can affect your kidney and overall health. It is important to engage in stress relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, or other hobbies.

Living with one kidney is not a challenge at all. You only need to be a little mindful of certain things. Follow the instructions in this blog and live a healthy life with your one precious kidney.