Polycystic Kidney Disease is a condition where cysts or fluid-filled sacs form inside the kidney, often occurring as multiple cysts in the kidney that affect the normal kidney tissue. It can also be described as…
“Polycystic kidney disease is a condition where numerous cysts develop inside the kidney, causing the kidney to enlarge. As these cysts grow, they compress the normal kidney tissue, gradually damaging it, which can eventually lead to kidney failure.”
Genetics: One Cause of Polycystic Kidney Disease…
Anyone can develop polycystic kidney disease or kidney cysts, especially those who have family members with this condition…
“Kidney cysts can be caused by genetics, although the exact cause is still unknown. It has been found that there is an abnormality in the kidney tissue that leads to the formation of many cysts. Most patients have a family history of this disease spanning several generations, but at the same time, some patients report no family history of this disease at all.”
Symptoms and Risks of Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic kidney disease is most commonly found in people aged 30-40 years and older. Symptoms include feeling a growing lump in the abdomen or an enlarged belly. When patients visit a doctor, the doctor will first palpate to check for lumps. If a lump is found that raises suspicion that “the kidney is enlarged,” the patient will be referred for an ultrasound. At this stage, it becomes clear whether the kidney is enlarged and if there are many cysts. The doctor can then make an accurate diagnosis.
In another case, a patient may come with high blood pressure and undergo examination for this condition. The doctor will investigate the cause. High blood pressure falls into two groups: the first group is of unknown cause, often genetic and the majority of cases. The second group, which is less common, has a known cause, such as polycystic kidney disease or kidney inflammation, which can cause high blood pressure. Treatment must address the underlying cause in addition to taking medication to control blood pressure.”
Regular Kidney Care and Treatment
Although polycystic kidney disease has no early warning signs, if suspicious symptoms appear, see a doctor immediately…
“Besides the symptom of an enlarged abdomen, polycystic kidney disease may cause pain in the lower back or abdomen because cysts can rupture and bleed internally. This can happen in various situations, including severe trauma, causing pain. If the cysts become infected, fever and chills may also occur.”
Kidney disease, if severe enough to require dialysis, can significantly reduce quality of life, making it difficult to live well. It also incurs high costs and time for treatment. Therefore, everyone should take good care of their kidney health at all times.
