Life after Kidney Donation

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Donating a kidney can save lives! We have two kidneys, but one can live a healthy life with just one. When you choose to give one of your kidneys to someone in need, it’s called a living donation. This is the most common and successful transplant procedure.

Living kidney donations usually come from family members but, they can also come from friends or even strangers. A suitable living donor is someone who willingly decides to donate one of their kidneys. The donor should be in good overall health without significant issues like high blood pressure, cancer, kidney disease, heart disease, or hepatitis.

Reasons Why People have concerns with Kidney Donation

  1. Lack of Education
  2. Concerns about health
  3. Fear of Failure
  4. Relationship challenges with a friend or family member

Despite these fears, it’s essential to note that kidney donation is a well-established and safe procedure. The vast majority of donors recover well and continue to lead healthy lives with one kidney.

Advantages of living Kidney Donation

  • Reduced waiting time

When the kidney comes from a living donor, the person doesn’t have to wait for a long time to receive it. This is because the waiting time is shorter for living donor organs.

  • No need for dialysis

When you are receiving a donor kidney while suffering from kidney disease there will be no need to perform dialysis.

  • Improved organ survival

When someone donates a kidney while they are still alive, it usually starts working in the person who receives it right after the transplant. But if the kidney comes from someone who has passed away, it may take some time, like days or weeks, before it starts functioning properly in the recipient’s body .

  • Feeling of satisfaction

Being a living donor is a positive and fulfilling experience. The donor feels proud knowing that they have helped someone in need.

By donating a kidney, you’re giving someone a chance to live a better life. Your selfless act of kindness can make a significant difference and bring hope to those who are suffering. If you’re considering becoming a living donor, talk to medical professionals who can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.