FAQ
Q: Why Do Kidneys Stop Working?
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Chronic kidney infections
- Severe injury
- Birth defects
- Certain drugs
Q: What Do Normal Kidneys Do?
- Remove extra water.
- Remove waste products.
- Balance chemicals in the body.
- Help control blood pressure.
- Help make red blood cells.
- Help build strong bones.
Q: What are Some Signs of Kidney Failure?
- Extreme tiredness.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Shortness of breath.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Swelling in the hands, face, and feet.
- High blood pressure.
- Itchiness.
- Loss of appetite.
Q: What Can be Done if my Kidneys Fail?
- Dialysis and kidney transplantation are procedures to replace lost kidney function.
- Diet and medication are important treatments for kidney failure.
- The dietitian will tell you what foods to eat to help you feel better.
- The doctor will order medicine to help with problems such as blood pressure control and water removal.
Q: What About a Transplant?
- A kidney transplant places a healthy kidney from another person into your body.
- Transplants can come from living or non-living (cadaveric) donors.
- The new kidney is placed in your lower abdomen.
- Most people need to be hospitalized for 1-2 weeks after their transplant.
- A successful transplant can help return you to a state of good health.
- Transplant is a treatment, not a cure.
- You will need to take medicine and see a doctor regularly.
- A donor kidney must be a “match” for your body.
- Your doctor will need to make a complete medical evaluation to determine if you are a transplant candidate
