Living with Kidney disease?

Does anyone else have kidney disease? I am 21 and have been diagnosed at 15. Usually I forget I even have the disease but ever once and awhile I think about having a disease and become depressed. Currently I only suffer from minor symptoms but eventually I know that my kidneys will fail and dialysis, kidney transplant or both will be required. Anyone else experiencing a similar situation. How do you live with your disease. Any encouraging words?

My friend, there's always beer.

I have to say that that answer is horrible advice since people affected by Kidney disease cannot drink beer. Report It

I was diagnosed with having kidney problems about a year ago. At first I was devastated because my father had the same problem. I was put on lasix and potassium. I have to watch very carefully what I eat. It's not easy, and it's even frustrating at times, but it can be done. I know that God is watching over me, and that he will get me through what ever situation I am faced with. He is and always be my strength. If you need to talk at all, please feel free to email at any time.

Robin Rasch

Avoid the things such as beer, and sugars that can stress out those precious kidneys.
Postively you can live on less than 25% of one kidney being able to function without a problem... It is at that point that you wil lhave a problem.....
Encourgement wise: I would get matched and find friends or relatives that match your HLA blood types, etc.. just in case you need to have a transplant.
Hopefully you have some siblings.... or cousins, etc..
If you do.. Just start asking them about this now... so if you need it later you may have someone to help you out.......

I was diagnosed approximately 15 years ago. I happened to luck out and was sent to a Nephrologist by my urologist. The Nephrologist had specialized in kidney functions, proper foods to eat, proper liquids that I could drink besides water all the time, and several meds. (I was so tired I could hardly put one foot in front of the other). He had done extensive studies on kidneys. He has since retired but referred me on to another that I feel comfortable with. I have leveled off and the kidney functions have been in a holding pattern for the past 10 years. The only exception is that I have chronic anemia now which I take Procrit shots on a weekly basis. I feel good, take each day at a time, follow my Dr's orders, keep all appointments, do all blood work, and 24 hour urine drops that are required. Also, my best girlfriend had kidney disease - was diagnosed during high school - approximately 5 years ago went on dialysis, and about a year and a half ago had a kidney transplant. She is now 57. She is doing wonderful but strictly follows Dr's orders. My thoughts are with you. If you want to chat, feel free to contact me.

I am 24 and am going through the same thing, Currently the Doctors give me 3-5 years before I will be eligible for a kidney transplant. It is difficult at times to deal with (mostly now because my husband and I are ready for children). I try to always think positive, after all it could be worse, at least the disease is able to dealt with and kidney donors are in abundance. Just remember the disease is not a death sentence. Take care of yourself.

Kristy