What causes a single shrunken kidney after more than thirty years, and what should be done about it?

Unilateral renal atrophy may be caused by factors such as renal ischemia, renal tuberculosis, or arteritis, and treatment should be directed according to the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Renal Ischemia

The kidney receives its blood supply from the renal artery. If the kidney experiences prolonged ischemia, it may lead to renal atrophy and symptoms such as pain. Management primarily involves weight reduction, smoking cessation, alcohol abstinence, and lipid regulation. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as amlodipine besylate tablets, nifedipine tablets, or nicardipine tablets may also be prescribed.

2. Renal Tuberculosis

This condition is often caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In early stages, kidney damage may not be obvious, but symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, dysuria, and hematuria commonly occur. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more pronounced and may even result in renal atrophy. Anti-tuberculosis drug therapy under medical supervision is necessary, including medications like rifampicin tablets and ethambutol tablets.

3. Arteritis

When large-vessel arteritis occurs, inflammation of the major arteries may lead to unilateral renal atrophy. Treatment under a physician's guidance may include antibiotics such as cefradine capsules, amoxicillin capsules, or erythromycin capsules.

In addition to the above causes, unilateral renal atrophy may also result from congenital renal hypoplasia, renal failure, or uremia. It is important to seek prompt medical evaluation and receive targeted treatment based on the specific cause. Maintaining healthy lifestyle and dietary habits, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, are also recommended.