After donating a kidney, you have to do these 8 things, otherwise your health can deteriorate anytime

Organ transplant is a miracle of the twentieth century. India ranks third in the world with around 12,000 kidney transplants every year. Most of these transplants are done by living relatives who donate a kidney out of love and affection.

The person donating the kidney undergoes a thorough examination to make sure that the organ transplant is safe and there are no risks later on. Studies conducted in Norway have shown that ‘individuals who have donated kidneys live longer and healthier lives than individuals who were not considered fit to donate a kidney.’ This does not mean that donating a kidney improves health; rather it means that potential organ donors have to undergo very rigorous tests before being declared fit for donation.

Advice is given after donating a kidney

Nephrology and Transplant Physician at Manipal Hospital, Goa Dr. Amol Mahaldar said that after such surgery, kidney donors are given some advice to reduce the risk of future diseases. The most important advice would be to take care of kidney health and this means doing the following 8 things to maintain kidney health.

Pay attention to water and salt

First, drink plenty of water. Drinking 2 to 2.5 liters of water daily reduces pressure on the kidneys. Second, reduce salt and fried/fast food. Salt is a major cause of high blood pressure while fried and fast food causes high cholesterol, both of which impair kidney and heart health.

weight and exercise

Third, keep your weight under control. Weight gain after organ donation can cause diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure and can lead to poor health. Fourth, do healthy exercises. Being active for at least 45 minutes a day can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as improve mental health.

Avoid alcohol, smoking and painkillers

Fifth, avoid smoking and alcohol. Cigarettes and alcohol cause cancer, heart disease and most diseases and it is best to avoid them. Sixth, avoid painkillers. Painkillers can affect the kidneys and cause kidney failure as well as stomach ulcers.

High BP, diabetes and regular tests

Seventh, control high BP and diabetes. Now people with diabetes and high blood pressure are allowed to donate organs but are put on a strict diet and lifestyle to avoid complications. Eighth, it is advisable to get regular kidney function checkup done with blood test and urine test every six months.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It cannot in any way be a substitute for any medicine or treatment. Always contact your doctor for more information.