Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder. People who are
affected by this disease often have numerous cysts in the kidneys, so they are
filled with fluid. Over time, the cysts can profoundly enlarge the kidneys while
replacing much of the normal structure, leading to decreased kidney function and
eventually kidney failure. Recognizing the chief complaints of Polycystic Kidney
Disease patients can help us detect the disease early and adopt effective
treatment so as to prevent its progression.
Polycystic Kidney Disease usually affects both kidneys. In the early stage,
you may not develop any symptoms or realize that you have the condition. In most
cases, problems do not develop until the age of 30-50, with some persons never
developing any problems. The most common complaints of people in this condition
include:
Pain in the back and the sides (between the ribs and hips). This is due to
enlarging of the kidneys and infections in the cysts. At times, you may suffer
from severe pain, while no pain at other times. Abdominal pain is another
problem, especially if there if also formation of cysts in your liver.
Headaches. When you experience these headaches, you will fees a pain in the
head or upper neck, and the dull pain may be temporary or persistent, and mild
or severe.
High blood pressure. Kidney functions are impacted as the cysts continue to
increase and grow, interfering the kidney's function of regulating the blood
pressure. So you may suffer from hypertension. If untreated, high blood pressure
can cause further renal injury, and greatly increased the risk of developing
heart disease and stroke.
Besides, hematuria (blood in urine) may occur if cysts become infected and
break open. With reducing kidney function, you may experience more frequent
urination, especially at night. Polycystic Kidney Disease patients have more
kidney stones than others. Other organs like the liver, pancreas and tests may
also develop cysts and infections. Persons suffer from this disease are more
prone to diverticulosis of the colon. In some cases, the enlarged kidneys will
lead to digestive problems and acid reflux.
