Life After Kidney Transplant: What Patients Should Expect
Last Updated:August 10, 2025, 19:11 IST
A kidney transplant can be life-changing. With proper care, timely medical follow-ups, and emotional support, most transplant recipients can go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives
Kidney problems are common in people of all age groups. The most frequently seen conditions include kidney stones, infections, chronic kidney disease, and kidney failure.
A kidney transplant gives a new lease of life, but recovery and long-term care are key to ensuring the new organ functions well. Here, we help patients understand how to take care of themselves after a transplant. Follow these vital tips from Dr. Sachin Gupta, Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, to improve your overall well-being.
Kidney problems are common in people of all age groups. The most frequently seen conditions include kidney stones, infections, chronic kidney disease, and kidney failure. Undergoing a kidney transplant is a major turning point for someone with kidney failure, it offers freedom from dialysis, improves quality of life, and allows for a more active lifestyle. Here’s how patients can take care of themselves after this life-saving procedure.
Vital tips for post-transplant care:
Regular follow-ups: After the transplant, patients usually stay in the hospital for about a week. Regular follow-up visits and blood tests are essential to monitor kidney function and detect any signs of rejection early. The first three months are the most critical.
Medication adherence: Patients must take immunosuppressant medications for life to prevent the body from rejecting the new kidney. This should always be done under the guidance of the treating doctor. Report any changes in your health to your doctor without hesitation.
Balanced diet: Post-transplant patients should follow a healthy, balanced diet that is low in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats to maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure. Avoid junk, spicy, oily, and canned foods. Consult a dietitian for a personalised meal plan. Drink only boiled water and avoid eating outside food.
Infection management: Due to reduced immunity from anti-rejection medications, patients are at a higher risk of infections. Maintain good hygiene, avoid crowded places, and keep your vaccinations up to date.
Lifestyle changes: Light exercise and walking are encouraged, but only after the doctor’s approval. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and over-the-counter supplements unless advised by your doctor. Manage stress with techniques such as meditation, reading, or listening to music, and ensure you get adequate sleep.
A kidney transplant can be life-changing. With proper care, timely medical follow-ups, and emotional support, most transplant recipients can go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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