Kidney Removal Side Effects

Kidney removal is a procedure that is done for several reasons, including illness of or injury to the kidneys. Other very altruistic individuals may donate one kidney to a person suffering from kidney disease. The short-term side effects after the kidney removal procedure are consistent with those you would experience after having any surgery performed. While there are long-term side effects from having only one kidney, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, people with one kidney can live a healthy normal life. People with one kidney should have regular checkups, as side effects of kidney removal usually progress slowly over a period of years. The UCLA Kidney Cancer Program asserts that even with a suboptimally functioning kidney, a person can still live a normal life and will rarely need dialysis.

High Blood Pressure

• Kidneys regulate blood pressure by releasing a hormone called renin that helps contract or expand blood vessels; the kidneys also regulate how much fluid flows through the bloodstream. Typically after several years of living with a solitary kidney, the blood pressure gradually begins to elevate. See a physician if your blood pressure is elevated.

Excessive Protein in the Urine

• Proteinuria is a condition characterized by excessive amounts of protein in the urine. This usually occurs after several years of living with a solitary kidney. Proteinuria typically signifies that there is damage to the kidney. A simple urine test will detect the increased protein. Pay attention to your urine; if you notice changes, notify your physician.

Reduced Glomerular Filtration Rate

• GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) is a measurement used to determine if your kidney is efficiently moving wastes from your bloodstream. When you have one kidney, there will eventually be a reduction in GFR. The National Kidney Foundation warns that reduced GFR can lead to CKD (chronic kidney disease), a slow loss of kidney function over time. The key to good kidney health is to have regular checkups and health screenings as soon as you see any sign of illness.

Short-Term Side Effects from Kidney Removal

• There are possible short-term side effects associated with any operation, and kidney removal is no different.
  According to an article from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, you may experience pain or swelling around your incision and throat pain from intubation. Constipation is a common side effect, but it is usually caused by pain medication given after the surgery and not by the procedure itself.