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Kidney Health को लेकर फैले Myths और उनकी सच्चाई! | Myths About Kidney Disease | Dr. Sachin Patil

Dr. Sachin Patil, a Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Specialist at Sahyadri Hospital, Nagar Road, discusses common myths and facts about kidney diseases. Many misconceptions surround kidney health, leading to fear and misinformation. Here, we clarify some of the most common myths.

Myth 1: Kidney Disease Affects Only The Elderly

Fact: Kidney disease is not restricted to older adults. It can affect individuals of all age groups. Anyone, regardless of age, can develop kidney-related issues due to various risk factors such as uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, or infections.

Myth 2: Kidney Disease Is Contagious

Fact: Kidney disease does not spread from person to person. It is a non-communicable disease, meaning it does not transfer through touch or close contact. The primary risk factors for kidney disease include unmanaged diabetes, high blood pressure, and infections, but it is not contagious.

Myth 3: Kidney Disease Is Always Fatal

Fact: Kidney disease has different stages, and its severity varies. There are two main types:

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): This is usually temporary and can be reversed with proper treatment.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): CKD has five stages, and dialysis is only required in the final stage when kidney function drops below 10%. Early detection and management can slow disease progression.

Myth 4: Dialysis Means Life Is Over

Fact: Dialysis is of two types—temporary and permanent.

• Temporary dialysis is often used in cases of acute kidney injury and can be reversed in most cases. Only about 10-20% of cases require long-term dialysis.
• Permanent dialysis is needed when kidney function permanently declines. However, patients can still lead fulfilling lives with proper care and management.

Myth 5: Dialysis Is Needed As Soon As One Kidney Fails

Fact: Dialysis is required only when kidney function drops below 10%. The body has two kidneys, and if one fails, the other can compensate. Dialysis is only recommended when both kidneys are severely affected.

Myth 6: Organ Donation Is Risky And Harmful

Fact: India lags behind in organ donation due to widespread myths and fears. Kidney donation is a safe procedure, conducted only after thorough medical evaluations. Donors undergo 40-50 medical tests and multiple fitness checks from doctors to ensure they are healthy enough to donate. Proper screening guarantees that donors can continue to live a normal and healthy life post-donation.

Myth 7: A Single Kidney Cannot Support A Normal Life

Fact: Whether due to donation or congenital conditions, a person with a single kidney can lead a completely normal life. With proper care and monitoring, individuals with one kidney can maintain good health without complications.

Consult A Doctor For Accurate Diagnosis

Many patients believe that once dialysis starts, it will continue for life. However, each case is different. Consulting a doctor and undergoing necessary tests such as sonography and creatinine level assessments can determine whether kidney issues are temporary or permanent.