Q: Is there any age limit to donate a kidney? If a person does donate one kidney what type of precautions should he take?

A:Most transplant centres exclude individuals more than 65 and less than 18 years of age from kidney donation. Someone who has donated a kidney, remains healthy and may live all his life without any problems. However, he should be periodically screened for high blood pressure and diabetes just like any other adult. Most experts will agree that adopting a healthy life style is all that is required. This include avoiding excess amounts of salt and eating recommended amount of proteins as consuming a diet which contains more protein than required may increase unnecessary load on your remaining kidney. Besides, regular exercise and keeping your weight within prescribed limits and not smoking is recommended.