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Solitary kidney health
I had a nephrectomy May 2019. Anyone notice any changes physically having a sole kidney? My energy level isn’t what it once was before my surgery. I occasionally have a drink with friends, not often, but I notice alcohol seems to disagree with me. I seem to have ill effects like headaches and more of a “hung over” feeling. I never drink more than 1-2 drinks. Also I notice if I don’t drink enough water I tend to feel more tired and I get a headache. My kidney function is normal. Everyone tells me people can live quite well with only one kidney. I told my PCP about my symptoms and he told me I should be fine with the single kidney as long as my labs are OK. Anyone else have any “symptoms” having a sole kidney? My surgery was 5 months ago.
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That's good news, @haroldpingel1943. Physicians will never say that there is a 0% chance of recurrence. Frankly that's not a promise anyone can make. But it sounds like they got everything. Do you have to have any further treatment? Did they give you any cautions or information about living with one kidney?
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1 ReactionThe margins suggest the cancer was all removed with the kidney. Oncologist did not think I needed a bone scan since the CT done on 9-23-2019 on chest shows no issues in lungs. Did not recommend any anti-cancer pills, he said side effects too much pain not knowing if any cancer actually exists. In summary, sure wish there was good technology available to detect early stages of cancer, doc says there is nothing yet, don't know if I want to believe that. Am on mayo clinic discussion group looking for answers.
Harold
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2 ReactionsI don't really know what it's like to live with 2 kidneys. I had a nephrectomy at the age of 4 (currently 39). I have lived a very normal healthy life. I do watch my labs closely, every 6 months checking levels. And in the last few years I've had a UPJ obstruction that has caused some havok. I am awaiting a surgery in January at Mayo to repair the ureter. I do notice I tire more easily than others, I just attributed that to my poor diet choices, but it could be the single kidney as well.
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1 Reaction@therberger You are literally living proof of living with one kidney. Good for you for keeping tabs with your one kidney. Would you care to share the reason for the nephrectomy at such an early age? What if any precautions were advised by doctors in your growing years? No motocross riding, no contact sports, etc? Has your current medical team made any comment about your tiring more easily?
Ginger
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