GFR after nephrectomy

Posted by azkidney57 @azkidney57, Oct 21, 2019

My GFR hovers around 57-58. I had a nephrectomy May 2019 for renal cell carcinoma. I still don’t have the energy level I had prior to surgery. It’s been 5 months and my doctor said my energy level would be back but couldn’t say when. I have always been very active. I work full time. I have a very active dog. I walk him but I find that I need to rest up more. I am still wondering whether I need to see a nephrologist. None of my doctors have a straight answer. I am told people do well with a solitary kidney. My lab work is normal except for the sl decrease in GFR. I notice less energy. Also I spoke to a nutritionist at my cancer center and was told I should get all the nutrients I need from a good diet and don’t need a “special “ diet. Reduce salt intake. Limit drinking alcohol, I don’t drink much at all. Any post nephrectomy people out there with any thoughts/ advise?

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Justin McClanahan, Moderator | @JustinMcClanahan | Oct 22, 2019

Hello @azkidney57. I'd like to invite @sheeb and @wolfer1975 who talked about GFR rates previously on Connect. I'd like to also invite back @harleymama, @harleymama, @granny50846 and @nnimblett to share their experience after nephrectomy surgery.

@azkidney57, how are you doing with your diet? Is it something the cancer center thinks will take a little time to catch up and ultimately help your fatigue?

azkidney57 | @azkidney57 | Oct 22, 2019

Thanks for responding! I am on no special diet. When I see my oncologist no mention is made about nutrition. I saw a nutritionist there weeks ago and was told there is no “special” diet I need to be on. My PCP also said I don’t need a “diet”. The only thing I am told is don’t over do salt intake and eat healthy. I will research on what I need to do to help my kidney and fatigue. I may take vitamins but I have to be careful what I take. I have always been healthy in the past except for a history of kidney stones on occasion. I will see what others have to say. Thanks for the direction!

trishanna | @trishanna | Oct 22, 2019

In reply to @azkidney57 "Thanks for responding! I am on no special diet. When I see my oncologist no mention..." + (show)

@azkidney57. At two years post surgery, I feel as good as I did prior to my surgery. However, I am considered to have chronic kidney disease, Stage 3(b). My GFR is 54. Unless you begin to show worsening symptoms, don't think you need to be concerned right now about diet. I do avoid foods which have high concentrations of phosphorous, potassium, or sodium, such as avocados, and spinach, but no one has suggested a strict diet. Do not know your age, but any surgery at any age is tough on your body. I was told that I'd be back to normal in six weeks, and that was true, except that I tired more easily. Truth is, it takes a full six months to even a year to return to total "normal." Your doctors will require you to have six month checkups for a while, and should they spot anything, you'll be advised. At any rate, don't think you need to worry. Take care.

Ginger, Volunteer Mentor | @gingerw | Oct 25, 2019

@azkidney57 Congratulations on the surgery, and now a new chance to make a difference in your life. Since your will have one kidney going forward, may I suggest you take care to keep that one in top working order, and not overstress it. That may mean not overdoing foods that have high potassium, phosphorus, sodium, organ meats, etc. I look forward to hearing what your renal dietician may have to say about this.
Ginger

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