Maximum life after kidney transplant - Diet and Precautions after surgery

For many patients, a kidney transplant surgery can do wonders for health conditions and can be considered as getting one more chance in life. Kidney transplant holds many benefits for health problems like leading an active lifestyle. Additionally, it comes with the most important advantage of the increased quality of life and span.

Our detailed discussion over the maximum life span after a kidney transplant can solve all the doubts and will help to make a better decision about four hours for transplant team.

What is a kidney transplant?

Some individuals with kidney failure may need a kidney transplant. It is surgery to replace an unhealthy or no longer functioning kidney from a donor’s healthy kidney. The donated kidney may come from a living donor or deceased donors, former donor age a deceased family member or others whose kidney matches the patient.

A kidney transplantation is just a procedure to increase the life span of new kidney in the patient; it is not a cure. The patient needs to follow certain guidelines and take some precautions to make sure the body accepts the new kidney. Moreover, after the kidney transplant, most patients will need to visit the surgeon regularly for check-ups blood tests.

What is the maximum life span after a kidney transplant?

On average, a patient can live up to 15-20 years after a kidney transplant from a living donor, whereas in a kidney transplant from a deceased donor, the patient can live up to a life expectancy of 10-12 years.

It is important to note that many factors are responsible for organ donation and determining the life span better quality of the patient. Like the age, overall health, and medical issues of the donor. The kidney transplant surgeon will be able to give the family members right information.

How long can you live after a kidney transplant?

Patients who opt for kidney transplants are likely to survive longer as compared to those who prefer dialysis. Patients who go for kidney transplants before starting dialysis are likely to stay healthy and to live a better quality of life for 15-20 years longer than kidney patients, who go for kidney transplants after dialysis.

Talking about the average lifespan how many kidney transplants, it is 15 to 20 years. If the donated kidney stops working or the transplanted kidney graft is not accepted by the body then the patient can opt for a kidney transplantation again for the second or even for the third time. With the increased number of kidney transplants, the problem comes along because it is very hard to find a suitable match for the patient’s kidney. It is important to take care of the transplanted kidney to increase the life span.

Furthermore, life expectancy after a kidney transplant depends on several factors. Some of the factors include the age of the donor, the type of kidneys fail the donor, the overall health of the condition, higher risk of transplant rejection, and the preservation time of the kidney.

How is life after a kidney transplant?

On average, kidney transplantation patients require 6-8 weeks to recover fully. This period differs from patient to patient according to their overall health and other factors. Many individuals lead a healthy and fulfilling life after a kidney transplant. The kidney transplant success rate is very high which means that out of 10 patients, 9 will lead a happy life. 

However, during recovery process after the kidney transplant, the patient has to follow certain guidelines and make dietary modifications. It is crucial to follow all the instructions as given by care team and your surgeon. Here are some general precautions

• Do not indulge in strenuous activities - After the kidney transplant surgery for about 6-8 weeks do not indulge in lifting heavy objects or performing strenuous activities. Once you recover fully, then you can join a gym after talking with the surgeon.
• Do not drive for 6-8 weeks after the kidney transplant - It is always advised to avoid driving after the surgery. A family member or a friend can help you this time by taking you to different places.
• Avoid contact with sick people - The patient may get infected by getting in contact with individuals with flu, cough, or pneumonia. It is always advised to keep washing hands to protect against several diseases.
• Start exercise regime - It is very important to stay active after the surgery. The doctor will advise you to start with simple walking or light stretching and yoga. Talk to the surgeon before starting any exercise program.
• Avoid contact with people who recently got a vaccine - Post kidney transplants there are certain vaccines that patients need to avoid. Avoid being around children who recently got vaccinated for polio, nasal flu, measles, and mumps. 

When it comes to dietary guidelines. Here are some general guidelines to follow :

• Stay hydrated - By keeping the body hydrated, the patient will be able to recover speedily and successfully. It is recommended to drink at least 3 liters of water post-kidney transplants. 
• Avoid uncooked or raw food - Post-kidney transplantation the immune system of the patient weakens. It is recommended to avoid uncooked or raw food as these foods may put the patient at risk of illness. Always prefer fresh and home-cooked food.
• Include plenty of protein - After a kidney transplant, the surgeon will suggest adding more protein-based food to the diet. Protein is helpful to build muscle and recover from lost weight. Talk to the surgeon and dietician about protein intake according to the overall health and other factors.
• Do not take herbal supplements - Post-kidney transplants do not take any herbal supplements without asking from the surgeon. Many herbal supplements can hinder the process of recovery.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit - Grapefruit can hinder the process of recovery after a kidney transplant so it is always recommended to avoid this fruit.
• Limit Saturated and Trans Fats: These fats can contribute to heart disease, which is a concern for transplant recipients. Choose healthier fats, such as those found in olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish.
• Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Depending on your individual needs and the medications you are taking, your healthcare team may recommend specific vitamin and mineral supplements, such as vitamin D or calcium.
• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: For individuals with diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels is essential. Proper management can help prevent further kidney damage.
• Alcohol and Caffeine: Consume alcohol in moderation, as excessive alcohol intake can be harmful to the kidneys. Limit caffeine intake, as it can contribute to dehydration.
• Individualized Diet Plan: Work with a registered dietitian to create an individualized diet plan that takes into account your specific health needs, medications, and any other medical conditions.

Conclusion

If a patient is suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal kidney failure, then a kidney transplant can give a new life to living person. Before taking this life-changing decision at transplant clinic it is very important to discuss every point with the surgeon. Post-surgery a patient needs to follow certain strict guidelines to increase the life span after the kidney transplant surgery takes off.