Carolina Nephrology provides expert kidney care, chronic kidney disease treatment, dialysis services

A kidney transplant is a surgery where a healthy kidney from another person is placed into your body. This new kidney takes over the work that your own kidneys can no longer do. For many people with end-stage renal disease, this is a path to a better quality of life. It is not a "cure," but it is often a much more effective treatment than staying on dialysis for years. Understanding the Eligibility Not everyone is a candidate for this surgery. Doctors must perform many tests to make sure your heart and lungs are strong enough for the operation. They also check for infections or other serious health issues. You need to be able to follow a strict medicine schedule for the rest of your life. This is vital because your body will naturally try to fight the new organ. Mental health and social support are also part of the check. You need people who can help you during the weeks of recovery. If you have active cancer or a severe heart condition, the risks might be too high. Th...

Learning that you have a condition affecting your kidneys can be overwhelming. It is a lot to take in. You might feel uncertain about the future or confused about what steps to take next. The most common form of this condition is inherited. It means that fluid-filled sacs, or cysts, grow in the kidneys over time. These cysts can change how well your kidneys do their job. Understanding the Condition The kidneys are vital. They filter waste from your blood and balance fluids in your body. When cysts develop, they can enlarge the kidneys and put pressure on surrounding tissues. This can lead to various symptoms. You might feel pain in your back or sides. High blood pressure is another common sign. Some people notice changes in how often they need to go to the bathroom. Many people do not have obvious symptoms in the early stages, which makes regular check-ups important. Managing Your Health There is no way to remove the cysts, but you can manage how they affect your body. Focus on...