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I have only one kidney by birth. Can I live a normal life?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Recently, I came to know that I got unilateral renal agenesis. My left kidney is absent. Basically, I am a physique model and use to do bodybuilding. I use to take lots of supplements. Also, I was on anabolic cycle for a few months as well. Being with unilateral kidney, will these supplements and anabolic affect my existing kidney? Can I live a normal life without any cautions. I would like to know the precaution of safeguarding my one kidney.

Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Anshul Varshney is a highly skilled Critical Care Physician specializing in nephrology, pulmonology, and rheumatology. He is committed to providing advanced, life-saving care to critically ill patients while addressing complex medical conditions affecting the kidneys, lungs, and immune system. His holistic and multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive treatment tailored to individual patient needs.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

We are here to help you.

  • Congenital renal agenesis is not as such any disease. However, since you have a single functioning kidney, you should be cautious before taking high protein diet, medicines and painkillers.
    • You should get a kidney function test and a urine for microalbumin done to check the status of the kidney.
    • You can live a normal life, but make sure you do not take painkillers and should see your doctor whenever you are ill. My point is to avoid self-medications.

      For further information consult a nephrologist online.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for the feedback. I got my physique model show after three months. I have worked one year for this. I would like to finish this competition. I am planning to take anabolics to do this. Will anabolic intake for shorter period affect my kidney? I want to compete this event very badly. Shall I proceed to take anabolic medicines on limited dosage till my competition?

Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Anshul Varshney is a highly skilled Critical Care Physician specializing in nephrology, pulmonology, and rheumatology. He is committed to providing advanced, life-saving care to critically ill patients while addressing complex medical conditions affecting the kidneys, lungs, and immune system. His holistic and multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive treatment tailored to individual patient needs.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

  • No, I would not recommend you to take anabolic steroids. Your life is more important than such competitions.

For further doubts consult a nephrologist online.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At December 29, 2016
Reviewed At April 30, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Anshul Varshney is a highly skilled Critical Care Physician specializing in nephrology, pulmonology, and rheumatology. He is committed to providing advanced, life-saving care to critically ill patients while addressing complex medical conditions affecting the kidneys, lungs, and immune system. His holistic and multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive treatment tailored to individual patient needs.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Anshul Varshney is a highly skilled Critical Care Physician specializing in nephrology, pulmonology, and rheumatology. He is committed to providing advanced, life-saving care to critically ill patients while addressing complex medical conditions affecting the kidneys, lungs, and immune system. His holistic and multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive treatment tailored to individual patient needs.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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