6 Common Myths and Facts About Kidney Transplant
The function of a kidney is to remove waste from the bloodstream. When the kidneys fail to perform this function, the waste starts getting accumulated in the body. Over a period, the accumulation of waste leads to kidney failure and ultimately death.
A kidney transplant is one of the most effective treatments to avoid total kidney failure. In a kidney transplant, the defunct kidney is replaced with a healthy kidney of a donor.
In our country, the procedure of kidney transplant is discredited due to a number of myths. The following is a reality check over these myths:
Myth-1 : Kidney transplant is very expensive as compared to dialysis
Fact : Dialysis is required throughout the lifetime of a patient. If we compare the costs of frequent dialysis as against the one-time cost in kidney transplant, the transplant works out as a better deal.
Myth-2 : Anyone can donate a kidney for transplantation
Fact : Only family members like nephew, niece, first cousins, spouse, brothers, and sisters are eligible to donate a kidney for transplantation. A kidney from a cadaver can be obtained after completion of a waiting period.
Myth-3 : Kidney transplant fails most of the time
Fact : The success rate of a kidney transplant is as high as 95%. With advanced technology being used in kidney transplant at Omni Hospitals, the rate of failure is almost nil.
Myth-4 : After a kidney transplant, I will be too weak and won’t be able to look after my family
Fact : With proper care and diet, one can gain their strength back and lead a perfectly normal life and look after their family.
Myth-5 : I cannot get pregnant after kidney transplant
Fact : Kidney transplant does not affect any other function of the body. A female can attain pregnancy even after a kidney transplant.
Myth-6 : I won’t get any kidney disease after the transplant
Fact : One can get a kidney disease even after a transplant. One has to follow a strict diet, maintain hygiene and exercise regularly to keep kidney disease or any other infection at bay.
Dr. J. N. Srinivasulu:
Dr J. N. Srinivasulu is a consultant nephrologist and transplant physician at Omni RK, Vizag. He has a special interest towards renal transplantation. He has performed multiple renal transplantation on live as well cadaver donors. He has done a commendable job in optimising dialysis prescription and he is performing more than 500 dialyses in Omni RK. Dr Srinivasulu is an active member of Indian Society of Nephrology and American Society of Nephrology.
About Omni Hospitals:
At Omni Hospitals, we have an army of best doctors who are experts in nephrology. They deal with a range of patients having renal issues on a day-to-day basis. We strive hard to provide the best treatment to our patients at the same time invest efforts in reducing the burden on patient’s family and friends. Our treatments of dialysis and kidney transplant are truly hassle-free. Our patients can avail benefits of aarogyasri for haemodialysis and kidney transplant.
MD, DM (Consultant – Nephrologist)