Do You Need Dialysis After Kidney Transplant
Will you need dialysis after a kidney transplant? Learn why most recipients don't, but understand when temporary dialysis might be necessary for a short period while your new kidney starts working.
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Last updated on 17th Jul, 2025
Introduction
A kidney transplant is a lifechanging procedure that can significantly improve the quality of life for people with endstage kidney disease. However, many patients wonder if they will still need dialysis after receiving a new kidney. Let’s explore this topic in simple terms to help you understand what to expect.
Understanding Kidney Transplants
A kidney transplant involves replacing a failed kidney with a healthy one from a donor (either living or deceased). The new kidney takes over the job of filtering waste and excess fluids from your blood, which your old kidneys could no longer do effectively.
When Is Dialysis Needed After a Transplant?
In most cases, a successful kidney transplant means you won’t need dialysis anymore. The new kidney should start working immediately or within a few days, allowing you to stop dialysis. However, there are some situations where dialysis may still be necessary:
1. Delayed Graft Function (DGF):
Sometimes, the transplanted kidney takes time to start working properly.
In such cases, temporary dialysis may be needed until the new kidney begins functioning.
2. Kidney Rejection:
If your body rejects the new kidney, it may stop working, requiring dialysis again.
Rejection can happen early or even years after the transplant.
3. Surgical Complications:
Rarely, complications during or after surgery may affect kidney function, leading to temporary dialysis.
4. Chronic Transplant Failure:
Over time, a transplanted kidney may lose function due to infections, medication side effects, or other health issues.
If this happens, dialysis or another transplant may be needed.
Signs That Your Transplanted Kidney Isn’t Working Properly
If your new kidney isn’t functioning well, you may notice symptoms similar to kidney failure, such as:
Swelling in hands, feet, or face
Fatigue and weakness
Reduced urine output
High blood pressure
Nausea or loss of appetite
If you experience any of these, contact your doctor immediately.
Consult Top Nephrologists
How to Keep Your Transplanted Kidney Healthy
To reduce the chances of needing dialysis again, follow these tips:
1. Take Your Medications as Prescribed
Immunosuppressants (antirejection drugs) are crucial to prevent your body from attacking the new kidney.
Never skip doses or stop medications without consulting your doctor.
2. Follow a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Eat a balanced diet with controlled protein, salt, and sugar.
Avoid processed foods and stay hydrated (unless advised otherwise).
3. Monitor Blood Pressure & Blood Sugar
High BP and diabetes can damage the transplanted kidney.
Regular checkups help keep these under control.
4. Stay Active & Maintain a Healthy Weight
Light exercise (like walking or yoga) helps overall health.
Avoid excessive weight gain, which can strain the kidney.
5. Avoid Infections
Wash hands frequently.
Stay updated with vaccinations (as recommended by your doctor).
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you notice:
Fever, chills, or signs of infection
Sudden weight gain or swelling
Pain near the transplanted kidney
Changes in urine output
Seek medical help immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications.
Can You Get Another Transplant If Needed?
Yes, if your transplanted kidney fails, you may be eligible for another transplant. Your doctor will evaluate your health to determine the best course of action.
Final Thoughts
Most kidney transplant recipients do not need dialysis after a successful surgery. However, some may require temporary or long-term dialysis if complications arise. The key is to follow your doctor’s advice, take medications on time, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to protect your new kidney. If you have concerns about kidney health or need expert advice, consider consulting a nephrologist through Apollo 24|7. You can book an appointment or schedule tests easily online for personalized care.
Consult Top Nephrologist
Consult Top Nephrologists
Dr. Hareesha Babu K
Nephrologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Nephrology),FASN, FRCP(Glasg), FRCP (Edin)
Bangalore
Kidney & Hypertension Care, Bangalore
(125+ Patients)
D. Akshay Zalavadiya
Nephrologist
3 Years • MBBS, MD, DM Nephrology
Ahmedabad
Beacon kidney consult, Ahmedabad
Dr. Siddharth Herur
Nephrologist
4 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Nephrology
Kurnool
Medicover hospital and Gurudatta poly clinic, Kurnool
Dr. Anantha Rao
Nephrologist
7 Years • MBBS, DNB (General Medicine), DNB (Nephrology)
Kurnool
Aakash hospital and KIMS hospital, Kurnool
Dr. S Bipin Kumar
Nephrologist
13 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM, Nephrology
Rajamahendravaram
SG KIDNEY CARE, Rajamahendravaram
Consult Top Nephrologist
Dr. Hareesha Babu K
Nephrologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Nephrology),FASN, FRCP(Glasg), FRCP (Edin)
Bangalore
Kidney & Hypertension Care, Bangalore
(125+ Patients)
D. Akshay Zalavadiya
Nephrologist
3 Years • MBBS, MD, DM Nephrology
Ahmedabad
Beacon kidney consult, Ahmedabad
Dr. Siddharth Herur
Nephrologist
4 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Nephrology
Kurnool
Medicover hospital and Gurudatta poly clinic, Kurnool
Dr. Anantha Rao
Nephrologist
7 Years • MBBS, DNB (General Medicine), DNB (Nephrology)
Kurnool
Aakash hospital and KIMS hospital, Kurnool
Dr. S Bipin Kumar
Nephrologist
13 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM, Nephrology
Rajamahendravaram
SG KIDNEY CARE, Rajamahendravaram
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