Can you live a normal life with one kidney?

Living with one kidney is often possible without major limitations but maintaining healthy habits, monitoring kidney function and managing health risks remain important.

10 Aug, 2026

N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Kidney functions

Dr. Vikram Kalra, Principal Director of Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Aakash Healthcare Multi Speciality Hospital, Dwarka states that most people can persue a healthy and active lives with one functioning kidney. Many people are born with one kidney, donate one or lose kidney function because of illness or injury. Here are key facts to know:

Source: Thehealthsite

One kidney can be enough

A healthy kidney can usually perform the body's essential filtering functions on its own.

Source: Thehealthsite

Life expectancy can be normal

Having one healthy kidney generally does not prevent people from living long and active lives.

Source: Thehealthsite

Blood pressure matters

People with one kidney may have a higher risk of high blood pressure so regular monitoring is important.

Source: Thehealthsite

Protect kidney health

Stay hydrated, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly and avoid unnecessary use of certain painkillers.

Source: Thehealthsite

Regular checkups help

Blood pressure, urine and kidney-function tests can help detect problems early.

Source: Thehealthsite

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