What precautions should I take for a single kidney?

Q: I am a 25 year old male. About six months ago during a routine sonography, I found out that I don't have the right kidney. Subsequently a renal scan was done. The tests showed no right kidney and slightly large but normal left kidney. My creatinine test is also normal. Please tell me what precautions do I need to take and would there be any complications at middle/old age?

A:Some persons are born with one kidney only - you being one. A person with a normal single kidney like yours will live a normal life span like any one else with two kidneys. You need to follow general good life style dictions like non smoking, exercise, monitor blood pressure regularly and healthy food habits. These would be no complications in middle or later age.