People Living with One Kidney

People having one kidney that is functioning normally can live normal lives without any complications. However, lifestyle changes should be observed as once damage begins in the remaining kidney, it could lead to more serious complications, even kidney failure.

There are several factors and conditions that can cause a person to have only one kidney, also called solitary kidney. It may include:

Being born with one kidney. Some cases of solitary kidney can be caused by a congenital anomaly. The person may be born with only one kidney, a condition called renal agenesis. In renal agenesis, one kidney has not fully developed while the baby is still developing in the womb. As a result, the baby is born with a single kidney.

Kidney or renal dysplasia is another birth defect that causes one to have a solitary kidney. In kidney dysplasia, the kidney or kidneys of the growing fetus fail to develop normally. The condition can affect one or both kidneys. If both kidneys are affected, the baby usually does not survive pregnancy.

Having one kidney removed because of a condition or other health problem. Some people can have only one kidney if they have had their kidney removed because of cancer, an anatomical obstruction, or because of severe damage to the kidney due to accident.

One kidney has been donated. In some cases, people will have one kidney because he or she has donated one kidney to a loved one with total kidney failure.

Most people living with one kidney can live a normal, healthy life. However, people who have the condition should practice precautions to help protect their one remaining kidney.

There are several ways a person can protect his or her remaining kidney. These include:

Having your blood pressure monitored regularly. Having high blood pressure can cause damage to the kidneys. Initially, signs of kidney damage may not present any symptoms. However, an uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to kidney failure, especially if most of the kidney structures have been damaged. Controlling high blood pressure is necessary.

Have your urine tested for protein. If you have a healthy kidney, protein should not be present in the urine. Normal kidney prevents these proteins from leaking out of the kidney. In damaged kidney, however, protein leaks out and becomes a part of the urine.

Eating a healthy kidney diet. People with one kidney should make healthy choices on what they take in their diet. These include eating more fruits, vegetables, grains, and low-fat dairy foods. Also, people who already have high blood pressure should limit their salt intake. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) recommend limiting salt intake to 2, 000 milligrams lower.

High protein diets should be limited in people with the condition. Proteins, when broken down, results in more waste materials that the kidneys have to remove. This, however, does not mean that you should completely avoid eating proteins. A certain amount of protein is still needed for proper nutrition.

Experts recommend drinking enough water as this helps maintain the right volume and concentration of blood and other fluids in the body.

A dietitian can help you find or formulate a proper dietary plan for you.

Can athletes with one kidney participate in sports?

Some doctors may advise patients with one functioning kidney to avoid contact sports, such as boxing, football, certain martial arts, and hockey. These sports increase the risk of heavy contact or collision. This, however, should not limit one person from engaging in some form of physical activity. Wearing protective padding under the uniform may help. A healthcare provider should be consulted regarding physical activity or sports questions that you may have.

Sources:

Solitary Kidney. National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC).

Kidney Dysplasia. National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC).

Living With One Kidney. US Congressional Kidney Caucus.