What are the side effects of donating a kidney?

Kidney Transplant - Donating a kidney is a major surgery that can have short-term and long-term effects on the donor's health. While kidney donation is generally considered safe, knowing the potential risks and side effects is essential. Some of the short-term and long-term side effects of donating a kidney include:

Short-term side effects:

• Pain and discomfort: The donor may experience pain and discomfort at the incision site after the surgery. This is typical after any surgery and can be managed with pain medications.

• Fatigue: Donors may feel tired and have low energy levels for several weeks after the surgery. This is a common side effect of any major surgery and usually improves with time and rest.

• Infection: Like any surgery, there is a risk of developing an infection at the incision site or in the urinary tract.

• Blood loss: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which might require a blood transfusion.

• Complications from anesthesia: Anesthesia carries its own set of risks, including allergic reactions. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any severe allergic reaction.

Long-term side effects:

• Reduced kidney function: Kidney donors generally continue to lead healthy lives with their remaining kidneys, although there might be a slight reduction in kidney function. Fortunately, the remaining kidney typically compensates for the loss, and most donors do not encounter any issues.

• High blood pressure: Donors have a slightly higher risk of developing high blood pressure (hypertension) at a later stage, potentially leading to kidney disease.

• Proteinuria: Some donors may develop increased levels of protein in the urine, which can be a sign of kidney damage.

• Pregnancy complications: Female donors might have a slightly higher risk of complications during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia.

• Psychological effects: Some donors might experience emotional or psychological challenges related to the donation process, such as guilt, anxiety, or depression.

Notably, these risks are generally low, and kidney donors are carefully screened to ensure they are healthy enough for donation. Donors are also closely monitored after the surgery to detect and manage complications early. If you are considering kidney donation, discussing the risks and benefits thoroughly with healthcare professionals and transplant specialists is crucial. They can provide personalized information based on your health and medical history.