POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE

POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE (PKD)

Edited by, JOHN FELIX

Polycystic kidney disease(PKD) is an inherited disorder where the kidneys enlarge and lose its function over time due to the development of clusters of cysts within the kidney. Cysts are the round sac filled with fluids. These cyst formation may lead to various complications including kidney failure. The major portion of the renal parenchyma develop into cyst. They may vary in their size.

TYPES:

Polycystic Kidney disease is classified into two types namely;

AUTOSOMAL DOMINANT POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE(ADPKD): This type is more common among adults. This is inherited to the child from parent by an autosomal dominant type of inheritance. This means that only one copy of abnormal gene is responsible for this type.

AUTOSOMAL RECESSIVE POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE(ARPKD): This is less common and is passed by an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. This means that both parents must carry the abnormal gene.

SYMPTOMS:

The common symptoms of polycystic kidney disease are High Blood pressure, Back or side pain, blood in urine, increased size of abdomen, Urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

COMPLICATIONS: 

There are many complications associated with the PKD, such as Growth of cyst in liver, pregnancy complications, heart valve abnormalities, aneurysm in the brain, high blood pressure and kidney failure.

TREATMENT:

There is no cure for PKD. Treatment can help people to manage symptoms and prevent much complications.

• It is important to control the Blood Pressure in a PKD patient.

• The pain can be controlled by some OTC medications containing acetaminophen.

• Kidney dialysis

• Kidney transplantation

LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS:

PKD is not preventable. You may be able to slow down the progression and prevent complications of the disorder by some of the lifestyle modifications,

• Quit smoking

• Manage stress

• Manage blood pressure. Take the anti-Hypertensive medications prescribed by your doctor.

• Maintain a healthy body weight. Do regular Exercises

• Healthy diet(Avoid Junk foods, reduced salt intake, etc.)