The term kidney transplant in itself is enough to spark a whirlwind of emotions, fears, and uncertainty in the minds of the patients and their loved ones. However, it is quite unfortunate that the myths about kidney transplants have spread faster than the truth. From those waiting room suggestions to the overdramatic scenes of movies, kidney transplants have become something that patients are generally afraid of. However, it is extremely important to know that this process is not just a treatment option, instead, it is a sign of hope and a second chance at life for millions of people who opt for it worldwide. Because of the myths and misconceptions in the air, many potential recipients keep delaying their transplants because of fear and uncertainty. People generally have a notion that they can only receive a kidney from their family members, or that life after a kidney transplant is more difficult than dialysis, or that the donor’s life is at risk after donating the kidneys. In this article, we will discuss in detail kidney transplants and debunk the most common myths surrounding them, which will help the patients, their loved ones, potential donors, and people who are just curious to know about the process, get a better idea and understanding of the life-saving process of kidney transplant surgery.
What is a kidney transplant?
A kidney transplant is a surgery that involves the placement of a kidney from a living or deceased donor into a recipient whose kidneys no longer function properly. Kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that are placed on either side of the spine just below the rib cage of a person. The primary function of the kidneys is to filter out the waste products, minerals, and fluids from the body. When the kidneys lose their filtering ability due to various reasons, it can raise the levels of harmful waste products in the blood, which can result in various complications. End-stage kidney disease occurs when the kidneys of a patient have lost more than 90% of their filtering ability. In such cases, a kidney transplant is considered a treatment option.
Why is a kidney transplant done?
A kidney transplant is often the preferred treatment option for end-stage kidney disease as compared to a lifelong process of dialysis. A kidney transplant can treat the problems related to end-stage kidney disease and help the patient feel better, while increasing the quality of life and life expectancy at the same time. As compared to dialysis, kidney transplantation offers:
- Better quality of life
- Lower risk of death
- Lesser restrictions on the diet
- Lower cost of treatment
Some patients might also consider getting a kidney transplant before going into dialysis. This is called a preemptive kidney transplant. Since only one kidney is needed to replace two failed kidneys, living donor kidney transplants are also possible.
What are some of the most common myths about kidney transplants?
Some of the most common myths surrounding kidney transplants include:
- Myth – Kidney transplant is only used as the last option in case of end-stage kidney disease
Fact: One of the most common misconceptions that people have is that they should only consider kidney transplant surgery when all the other treatment options have failed. However, this is not the case. A kidney transplant can serve as the optimal treatment option for the patients. It provides a much higher life expectancy than dialysis, while also significantly improving the quality of life of the patients.
- Myth – It takes a long time to find a donor for a kidney transplant
Fact: It is another very common myth surrounding the process of kidney transplant. The time taken to find a donor might vary significantly based on the type of donor and the individual cases of the patients. While finding a deceased donor might take time due to the waiting list, a living donor can be found much quicker.
- Myth – Patients can’t go to work after the procedure
Fact: Most of the patients can return to a normal life and their workplace within 2-3 months from the procedure. Not just that, after recovering from the procedure of a kidney transplant in Chandigarh, the patient can live a completely normal life, just like other healthy individuals. They just need to take certain precautions, such as maintaining hygiene, wearing masks at crowded places, taking their medications on time, and not skipping their doctor visits, in order to make the kidney transplant surgery a success, and enjoy the fullest of their lives by returning to normalcy.
- Myth – Women can’t get pregnant after a kidney transplant
Fact: A woman who has had a kidney transplant can conceive a child after 1-1.5 years of the kidney transplant in Chandigarh. They just need to plan their pregnancy properly and consult their expert nephrologist to make sure that their medications are not harmful to the fetus. The advancements in science and modern medicine have led many women with kidney transplants to enjoy the feeling of motherhood without any complications.
- Myth – Patients only have one chance at a kidney transplant
Fact: The fact behind this is that if a patient has a failed kidney transplant, they can go back to getting dialysis, and once they find another donor, they can have another attempt at kidney replacement.
If you are looking for the best kidney transplant hospital in Mohali or the best kidney transplant doctor in Mohali, Sohana Hospital might be the best option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the world’s most advanced technology and North India’s most trusted and renowned kidney specialists who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for all the kidney-related ailments of the patients in the region with the most compassionate and patient-centric approach. Book your appointment today!