Danny: A family friend is donating their kidney to their sister. Why would someone need a kidney transplant?

Megan: The role of the kidney is to act as a filter that removes waste, fluid and minerals from the body. What we don’t need or want in the body leaves our system when we urinate. When the kidney can no longer filter and remove, harmful levels of waste and fluid start to accumulate. As a result, blood pressure can rise and kidney failure can happen. Instead of being on dialysis for life because of kidney failure, a transplant can be done which can provide better quality of life, have less dietary restrictions, and has a lower risk of death. Being a donor can save someone’s life and give them a healthier life, There are tissue type and blood type matching that has to take place, so someone who meets these requirements would be eligible to be the donor. 

If you have a question for Dr. FIT, email her at everybodysfit@gmail.com and be sure to check out her website www.everybodysfitoceanside.com