Can You Live with One Kidney

Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology | June 05, 2025

Can you live with one kidney? The answer is, yes, you absolutely can. In fact, many people live long, healthy lives with a single kidney. But living with one kidney does require some understanding of how your body adjusts, what lifestyle changes are important, and how to stay ahead of any potential risks.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know; from kidney function and potential risks to diet, exercise, medical care, and long-term wellness.

The primary role of the kidneys is to remove waste and excess fluids from the body, helping to maintain a healthy balance of electrolytes, blood pressure, and other critical functions. As they start to fail, the overall effects are quite damaging. You should know about the signs of chronic kidney disease, as you can miss out on them easily. With the right signs and early diagnosis, you can treat this condition on time.

What Do Kidneys Do?

Your kidneys are incredible organs; small in size but crucial in maintaining overall health. Together, they filter around 50 gallons (approximately 190 litres) of blood every single day. They perform many essential functions, including:

• Removing waste and excess fluids from the body
• Balancing electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium
• Managing blood pressure through hormone regulation
• Producing hormones that stimulate red blood cell production
• Activating vitamin D, which supports strong bones and immune health

While we are born with two kidneys, it turns out that we really only need one functioning kidney to live a normal, healthy life.

What Happens When You Have Just One Kidney?

When a person is born with only one kidney, or when a kidney is surgically removed (due to donation, injury, or disease), the remaining kidney usually adapts. It grows slightly larger and boosts its filtering ability to meet the body’s needs. Over time, one kidney can take over nearly all the necessary functions. Many people with a single kidney experience no symptoms at all.

What Happens When You Have Just One Kidney?

There are several reasons why a person might live with one kidney:

• Congenital absence: A small number of people are born with just one kidney (a condition called renal agenesis).
• Surgical removal: A kidney may be removed because of cancer, chronic disease, or trauma.
• Kidney donation: Thousands of healthy individuals donate a kidney to help loved ones or strangers in need.
• Kidney shrinkage: Chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure may lead to loss of function in one kidney over time.

No matter the reason, with good care and lifestyle management, people can live with one kidney and enjoy a good quality of life.

Is It Safe to Live with One Kidney?

In most cases, yes. Many people with a single kidney never develop serious problems, especially if they follow the right precautions. Research shows there may be slightly higher risks over the long term, including:

• Increased blood pressure
• Protein in urine (proteinuria)
• Slightly faster decline in kidney function as people age

That’s why it’s important to adopt a kidney-friendly lifestyle and work closely with a specialist to monitor your health.

Diet and Nutrition

One of the most important ways to protect your kidney is through proper nutrition. There’s no universal “renal diet” required for all people with one kidney, but smart choices can help you avoid extra strain.

In general, you should aim for:

• Balanced protein intake: Enough to maintain muscle mass, but not so much that it overworks your kidney
• Lower sodium: Aim for under 2,300 mg of salt per day to help control blood pressure
• Ample fruits and vegetables: These provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
• Adequate hydration: Drinking plenty of water keeps your kidney working smoothly

Processed foods, fast food, and sugary drinks should be limited. If blood tests show any decline in kidney function, your doctor may further personalize your diet to reduce phosphorus, potassium, or protein intake.

Physical Activity with a Single Kidney

Exercise is important for everyone, including those with a single kidney. Regular physical activity helps you maintain a healthy weight, lowers blood pressure, improves mood, and supports heart health; all of which benefit kidney function.

Most types of exercise are perfectly safe:

• Walking
• Jogging
• Swimming
• Yoga
• Strength training (with good technique)

Contact sports such as football, martial arts, or hockey carry a risk of kidney injury. If you participate in these, it’s wise to wear protective equipment; and speak with your doctor first.

Medical Monitoring: Regular Check-Ups Are Key

When you live with one kidney, the best kidney treatment is prevention. Regular check-ups can help you spot problems early; often before you feel any symptoms.

Here’s what your doctor will typically monitor:

• Blood pressure: Keep it below 130/80 mmHg if possible
• Creatinine and eGFR levels: Measure how well your kidney is filtering
• Urinalysis: Look for protein in the urine
• Electrolytes and overall blood chemistry

Most people will only need annual or semi-annual visits; but if there are any concerns, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing.

Medications to Use with Caution

Some common medications can affect kidney health, particularly when you have only one kidney. The medicines to watch out for include:

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Some antibiotics and antivirals
• Certain herbal supplements

It’s always smart to consult your nephrologist before starting any new medicine; even over-the-counter drugs, to ensure they are safe for your kidney.

Do You Need Dialysis with One Kidney?

Dialysis is required only when kidney function drops below about 15% of normal. With good care, most individuals maintain strong kidney function throughout life.

However, if you do develop kidney disease (for example, due to diabetes or hypertension), it’s important to work with your nephrologist early. The earlier you take action, the more likely you can avoid dialysis.

Are There Long-Term Risks?

Living with one kidney carries slightly higher long-term risks, especially if other health issues (like diabetes or high blood pressure) are present. The most common risks include:

• High blood pressure
• Proteinuria
• Gradual decline in filtration rate over decades

By working closely with your doctor, eating well, staying active, and avoiding harmful medications, most people maintain excellent kidney function for life.

Conclusion

So, can you live with one kidney? The answer is yes! You can enjoy a full, healthy life with only one kidney. Just ensure that you regularly monitor kidney health, make smart lifestyle choices, and seek the best kidney treatment and professional guidance from experts.

At AINU, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our nephrology team can create a personalized care plan to help you protect your kidney and live life to the fullest.

If you or a loved one are living with a single kidney, contact AINU today for expert guidance and world-class care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a person live with only one kidney?

Yes! Many people live perfectly normal lives with one kidney, as long as they take care of their overall health.

2. What precautions should I take if I have only one kidney?

Maintain healthy blood pressure, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, avoid injury to the kidney, and attend regular check-ups with your nephrologist.

3. Are there any restrictions on physical activity?

Most exercise is safe; including walking, swimming, yoga, and strength training. For contact sports, wear protective gear and consult your doctor first.