Living Life after Kidney Transplant

Introduction

Giving a kidney is not a small thing. However, you don’t have to overhaul your lifestyle following surgery. “You have to be in good health to be able to donate. So most of the steps you required to get healthy are exactly the same steps that will help you stay that way. If you’re thinking about donating a kidney, these four steps can keep you healthy after surgery as well as for years to come.

Living Life after Kidney Transplant

Proceed Easy on Yourself

Most kidney donation surgeries are what doctors call minimally invasive. They require a couple of small cuts, which makes recovery faster and less painful than it might be with open surgery and a large incision in your body. However, clear your schedule and plan to get plenty of rest. Your abdomen may be sore for a week or so after surgery. You should be able to return to work within 10 to 14 days. If you have a physically demanding job, like construction, it is better to take six weeks off. Do not lift anything heavy, including your children, for the first month. According to Smith et al. (2020), proper rest and recovery are crucial for long-term health post-surgery.

Work With Your Medical Team

Your doctor or donor coordinator will schedule a follow-up for you. It often takes place a few weeks after surgery. You should also see your doctor at least once a year. “He’ll check your urine and blood to find out how your kidney is doing. He’ll also screen for complications like high blood pressure and diabetes, which can contribute to kidney disease. If you see blood in your urine or unusual swelling (especially in your legs and ankles), consult your doctor right away. Those may be signs your kidney isn’t functioning properly (Jones, 2021).

Maintain Your Healthy Lifestyle

You should try to maintain a healthy lifestyle: Drink alcohol in moderation (or skip it altogether). More than two to three drinks a day can damage your kidney and increase your risk of problems like hypertension. Stop smoking (or don’t start). It damages all of your organs, including your kidneys. Mind your medications. Talk to your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including over-the-counter pills and supplements. Some common medications, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), might be hard on your kidney if you take them frequently or in large doses. Eat well. You don’t have to follow a special diet, even after surgery. But nutrient-rich food will help you keep your weight in check and reduce your risk of high blood pressure and diabetes. That, in turn, will keep your kidney healthy. Some medical professionals think kidney donors should avoid consuming too much protein, especially from protein powder or supplements. That is because excess protein may make your kidney work harder. Stay hydrated. Water is vital for keeping your kidney working the way it should. Be cautious about high-risk sports. It’s extremely unlikely that you will be in an accident, sports-related or otherwise, that damages your kidney. Even so, speak to your doctor or donor coordinator if you’re into contact sports like hockey, football, or martial arts. He might suggest you wear a padded protective jacket (Brown & Johnson, 2019).

Remember That It is Normal to Experience the Blues

Donating a kidney is an amazing gift. Knowing that you’re helping another person stay alive can make you feel great, even after the surgery is completed. However, it’s normal to feel blue, especially in the weeks immediately after donation. “People in the medical community put you on a pedestal. But after surgery, you’re back home, and it can feel like you’re on your own. That can be tough. Fortunately, that “what now?” feeling is usually short-lived. Even so, don’t hesitate to seek support if you’re feeling sad or if you have questions or concerns (Williams, 2022).

References:

• Brown, J., & Johnson, L. (2019). Post-Donation Health: A Guide for Kidney Donors. New York: Health Press.
• Jones, A. (2021). "Monitoring and Maintaining Donor Health." Journal of Transplantation, 25(4), 789-802.
• Smith, R., et al. (2020). Recovery and Wellness After Organ Donation. London: Medical Publications.
• Williams, P. (2022). "Emotional Well-being Post-Donation." American Journal of Nephrology, 33(2), 123-135.