Is Bloody Urine a Medical Emergency?
Seeing blood in the toilet is terrifying, especially if you don't know where it originated. Read on to learn when bloody urine is an emergency and the next steps in treatment for peace of mind.
Life After Your Kidney Transplant: What to Expect
A kidney transplant is a significant procedure that's necessary for people with kidney failure or end-stage kidney disease. It's an important change that affects the rest of your life – but how?
If you need a kidney transplant, it's essential to know what to expect during and after the recovery process. The Metro Renal Associates team assists you through the entire transplant process.
Our team consists of three board-certified and experienced nephrologists who can help you through the ups and downs of a kidney transplant.
Recovery after the procedure
A kidney transplant is an invasive procedure that takes time to recover from. You are hospitalized for a few days while you heal and the new kidney adjusts to your body.
It's common to experience pain and discomfort around the incision site for at least a week. Once you're home, it's crucial to take the recovery process slowly to allow the new kidney to adjust and avoid complications.
Most people experience higher energy levels when the new kidney begins working, but avoid going all out. It's essential to ease into activity slowly to avoid getting hurt.
You should be able to return to work within a few weeks of the procedure, but you may still require physical therapy or other treatments as your body continues to heal.
What medications will I need to take?
Immunosuppressants are the most crucial medications you need to take after a transplant. Their goal is to prevent the body's immune system from fighting off the foreign kidney.
These medications weaken the immune system, hoping it won't recognize that the kidney isn't from your body. You need to take these medications for the rest of your life.
Pain medication may be necessary in the days to weeks after the procedure to control discomfort as you heal. However, some medicines are off-limits to avoid damaging the new kidney.
Complications to watch out for
After a kidney transplant, there can be complications you should look out for. The most common complication is rejection, when the body begins fighting the new kidney. Symptoms of kidney rejection include flu-like symptoms, weight gain, and decreased urine output.
Another complication is delayed graft function, which occurs when the new kidney doesn't start working immediately. In that case, you will need dialysis until the kidney begins functioning properly.
Infections are another serious complication that can occur with a lowered immune system caused by anti-rejection medications. Symptoms may include fever, lethargy, sweating, or chills.
Essential lifestyle adjustments
Lifestyle adjustments are critical after a kidney transplant to ensure your health and the health of the new kidney. For instance, a healthy diet full of whole foods is a great way to maintain kidney health.
Drinking plenty of water is another way to avoid kidney complications. Staying hydrated keeps the new kidney working well. Regular exercise is another lifestyle adjustment to remain healthy and prevent blood clots after surgery.
Weight gain is a prevalent issue after a kidney transplant. Weight management through a healthy diet and exercise is essential. Infection prevention is also key; ensure you wash your hands frequently and stay away from sick friends and family.
Long-term recovery outlook
Most people who have a kidney transplant live long and healthy lives with the proper care. Kidneys from a live donor typically last longer than those from a deceased donor. Depending on various factors, most kidneys last 10 to 20 years.
After recovering from a kidney transplant, you can also resume most of your normal activities and live a very fulfilling life with more energy. It's essential to attend all of your follow-up appointments and report any issues you run into immediately.
To learn more about what to expect after a kidney transplant, call one of our conveniently located offices in Washington, D.C., and Capitol Heights, Maryland. You can also request a consultation on the website.
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