A new donor kidney is inserted into your body during a kidney transplant. A renal failure is also treated in this way. The replaced kidney will cure the organs from damage. The transplanted kidney is positioned on the abdomen’s lower right or left side.
Surgery to replace a sick kidney with a healthy kidney from a donor is known as a kidney transplant. The kidney may originate from a living or a deceased organ donor. One of the kidneys of family members or suitable candidates may donate a kidney.
Here are lists of things to be known about kidney transplantation:
What causes kidney failure?
If the kidney damage becomes too severe, it loses its ability to function normally. It may happen rapidly. It may be caused because of diabetes and high blood pressure. The substances like drugs and toxins can permanently cause kidney failure. HIV infection may also cause kidney failure.
The signs and symptoms of kidney failure
Most of the people experience no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Others get moderate, undetailed, or hazy symptoms. You cannot find it until the problem is severe or even life-threatening. Retention of fluid is a symptom of some renal failure types. Severe dehydration may also cause kidney failure. Some people may feel nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and pale skin.
Preparation for a kidney transplant
You should check with the doctor and arrange for the donor. You must undergo many testing before being included on the transplant waiting list. A kidney transplant team performs the evaluation process. A transplant surgeon, nephrologists, nurses, a social worker, and a psychiatrist will make up the team for the surgery.
The psychological and social issues are involved in organ transplantation. You should not stress yourself. You will undergo several physical tests and examinations to check your kidney transplantation eligibility. A blood test is done to find a matching donor. Diagnostic tests will be done to check your kidney and overall health condition.
How do I get a kidney donor?
Your doctor will suggest a nearby transplant facility if transplantation is necessary for you. You will have examinations like X-rays and scans to ensure that you are in good enough health to undergo the transplant procedure.
Two methods are available for having a healthy kidney. The first method is through a live donor. Your family member or a close friend may donate one of their kidneys to you. Another option is to find a stranger to offer you one of their kidneys. The second option to obtain a kidney is from an organ donor who has passed away.
Surgery
A kidney transplantation process lasts three hours. Anesthesia will be given so that you remain unconscious throughout the procedure. The surgeon will make an incision in your belly, just above your groyne. The kidney will be connected to the blood vessels. The ureter, the tube that transports urine from your kidney to your bladder, will then be joined by the surgeon. The donor kidney will be implanted, and your kidneys won’t be taken out unless they are painful or infected.
With stitches and staples, the opening will be sealed. You can insert a small drain into your abdomen to drain any surplus fluid accumulated during the procedure. To facilitate urination, your surgeon will also place a thin tube known as a stent into your ureter. This will be taken out after 6 to 12 weeks.
Recovery period
The day after your transplant, you will be able to get out of bed and go for a walk. You must stay in hospital for five days. You should not drive or lift heavy objects for a month, even though you start to feel much better in two weeks. Your doctor will suggest you take rest for six to eight weeks. You must take a particular drug daily to prevent your body from rejecting the donor’s kidney. To ensure your body is mending properly, you should visit your doctor twice a week.
Staying active will help you heal more quickly. Your doctor will suggest you on the types of workouts you can perform and how long. Many people begin their workouts with stretching and walking and then gradually increase the duration and intensity of their activities. But you should not play sports like football because it may cause damage to your transplanted kidney.
You should avoid smoking and consuming alcohol. You may consult your dietician about your meal planning. You should eat more vegetables and fruits. You can choose the food which can be stable for your body.
Benefits of kidney transplantation
Your strength, endurance, and energy levels increase after a successful kidney transplant. You can consume fluids and eat whatever you want. You should be able to have a normal lifestyle and have more control over your day-to-day activities after the transplant. After transplantation, anaemia, a typical issue with kidney failure, could be resolved.
Survival rates
The survival rate of kidney transplantation is high than any other transplantation. Several medical reports have proved that kidney transplantation’s survival rate is high. They have established a 95% survival rate at one year. You can live up to 20 years after a successful kidney transplant.
Cost of Kidney Transplant
The cost of a renal transplant depends on various factors such as the condition of the patient, the doctor’s experience, and the hospital chosen for the treatment.
A kidney transplant is an expensive treatment although one can opt to get the treatment in countries like India or Turkey where the cost of a kidney transplant is relatively low when compared to countries like the USA or the UK.
The cost of kidney transplants in India for international patients comprises hospital stay, pickup from the airport, medicines, consumables, and doctor’s fees. It is quite obvious that the best and the most diversified types of medicinal products are manufactured in India at a very minimal cost. This is what leads to the low cost of medical treatment in India.
Final Thoughts
Kidney transplantation can be done in case of an emergency to increase your lifespan. If you have any discomfort in your body, it is important to visit a doctor as early as possible. Early treatment can save your life.