Few things one should know about Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease, also known as PKD, is an inherited kidney disorder. It causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys. PKD may impair kidney function and eventually lead to kidney failure.

What are the symptoms of PKD?

Many people live with PKD for years without experiencing symptoms related to this disease. Cysts usually grow 0.5 inches or larger before a person starts to notice certain symptoms and that include:

• Presence of blood in the urine.
• Pain in the abdomen.
• Frequent urination.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI).
• Kidney stones.
• Fatigue.
• Joint pain.

Types of PKD:

Polycystic Kidney Disease is usually inherited. There are three types of PKD:

Autosomal dominant PKD:

Autosomal dominant is sometimes called adult PKD. Symptoms usually develop later in life, between the ages of 30 and 40.

Autosomal recessive PKD:

Autosomal recessive PKD is a lot less common that Autosomal dominant PKD. It’s also said to be inherited, but both parents must carry similar genes.

Acquired cystic kidney disease:

Acquired cystic kidney disease isn’t inherited. It usually occurs much later in life. ACKD develops in people who already have other kidney issues. It’s more common in people who have kidney failure or are on dialysis.

Diagnosis:

Owing to the fact that two of the types are inherited, your genes will be reviewed thoroughly. To diagnose all three types of PKD, you’d be given imaging tests to look for cysts. Types of tests include:

Abdominal ultrasound:

This non-invasive test uses sound waves to detect cysts in your kidneys.

Abdominal CT Scan:

CT Scan test is used to find out smaller cysts in the kidneys.

Abdominal MRI Scan:

This MRI uses strong magnets to image your body to visualize kidney structure and look for cysts.

Treatment:

The goal of PKD treatment is to avoid further complications. Having a check on high blood pressure is the most important part of the treatment.

• Some of the treatment options may include:
• Blood pressure medication
• Antibiotics to treat UTIs
• A low-sodium diet
• Surgery to drain cysts and help relieve pain

NU Hospitals offers comprehensive care under one roof backed by the best set of kidney specialists in Bangalore, who work closely to prepare an individualized treatment plan. We provide a complete spectrum of services to achieve the best possible outcome that makes us one of the best kidney care hospitals in Bangalore.