You’ve likely heard about the life-changing benefits of kidney donation for recipients. And the need has never been greater – COVID-19-related complications add to the already increasing number of individuals with kidney damage. Organ donation quite literally gives kidney patients a new lease on life.
But there are lots of benefits for kidney donors, too. Here are a few things you can get when you give.
At the Nephrology Associates of Greater Cincinnati, we’ve seen firsthand how organ donation transforms the lives of our end stage renal disease patients. Kidney transplant patients are living longer and leading healthier lives than those on dialysis. Some are even able to return to the lifestyle they led before renal failure, with a few adjustments.
For National Donate Life month this April, we’re celebrating the generous organ donors who have improved so many kidney patients’ quality of life and encouraging others to learn more about donation. Here are a few things you might not have known about kidney donation.
Transplant patients have an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 due to the immunosuppressive medication required to keep your body from rejecting the transplanted kidney. This medication is critical for the success of your transplant, so do NOT stop taking it. Instead, take steps to limit any potential exposure to the virus. As Ohio begins to reopen, it is critical to continue staying home as much as possible. Take advantage of grocery delivery and pick-up options, or have a friend or relative shop for you and leave the bags at your door. If you are not able to work remotely, your doctor may be able to write a letter to your employer for a leave of absence.
Once the operation is complete and you’ve begun your regimen of anti-rejection medication, there will be regular follow-ups with your kidney care team. In the first few weeks, you may be asked to come in for blood tests several times. After that, you’ll have more time between check-ins.
After your kidney transplant operation, you will start taking anti-rejection medication to keep your body from attacking the transplanted kidney. This medication is essential for a successful transplant, but it will decrease your ability to fight infections.
There are many ways you can take a proactive approach to your health.
Once you’ve been approved for kidney transplant and a suitable kidney is found, you’ll be prepped for the transplant operation. Whether you have a planned living kidney donation or are receiving a kidney from a deceased donor, knowing what to expect during the surgery can help ease your mind and prepare you for your next steps.
Once you have decided to pursue kidney transplant under the guidance of your nephrologist, there are several steps to take before you can be considered a candidate for transplant.
At the Nephrology Associates of Greater Cincinnati, we are able to refer you to a local transplant center. There are two kidney transplant centers in the greater Cincinnati area: the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and the Christ Hospital Health Network.
