WHAT IS MEANT BY POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE?

As the name suggests, Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) causes the growth of several cysts in the kidneys. These cysts ultimately get filled with fluid. If the cysts keep on growing or if they get too big, they cause a severe damage to the kidneys. PKD cysts can slowly replace much of the kidneys, thus with each passing day reducing the functions of the kidney and ultimately leading to kidney failure. Broadly speaking, there is no cure for PKD, but there are treatments done with natural herbs for kidney problem, which can put a control over the symptoms.

HOW COMMON IS PKD?

It is an inherited kidney disorder and is the fourth leading cause of kidney failure. It is the main cause behind 5% of the total kidney failures that occur in people across the world. It is found in all races and occurs equally in men and women.

WHAT ARE ALL OTHER ORGANS AFFECTED?

Besides, the kidney PKD can affect other organs too. The cysts might develop in their liver, spleen, pancreas, ovaries, and large bowels. When cysts develop in these organs, as much they do not cause serious problems, however, exceptional cases are always there. It can also affect the brain and heart in some cases. If PKD affects the brain, it can cause an aneurysm – bulging of blood vessels so much so that they can burst, resulting in a stroke or even death. On the other hand, if it affects the heart, the valves can become floppy, resulting in a heart murmur in some patients.

WHAT ARE THE CLUES THAT SOMEONE HAS PKD?

Most people do not develop symptoms of PKD till they are 30 to 40 years old. Cysts typically grow 0.5 inches or larger before a person starts noticing symptoms. Initial symptoms associated with PKD can include:

• Pain or tenderness in the abdomen

• Abnormalities in nails

• Blood in the urine

• Joint Pain

• Frequent urination

• Fatigue

• Pain in the sides

• Pale skin color

• Urinary Tract Infection

• Skin that bruises easily

• Kidney stones

• Pain or heaviness in the back

HOW IS PKD DIAGNOSED?

The most invasive, inexpensive and reliable way to diagnose PKD is ultrasound. In some cases, a CT scan (computed tomography scan) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may also detect some smaller cysts that cannot be found on an ultrasound. MRI is used for measuring and monitoring volume and growth of kidneys and cysts. In some situations, genetic testing might also be done.

HOW IS PKD TREATED?

Drinking plain water throughout the day and avoiding caffeine in beverages can only slow the growth of cysts. Irrespective a lot of research has been done, still, there is no such treatment to cure or get rid of PKD. However, all kidney patients at Kundan Kidney Care are offered natural herbs for the kidney problem. Our natural herbal supplements are made of pure Grade A herbs and are guaranteed to be free of chemicals, steroids or metals and have no known side effects. Kundan Kidney Care Centre is an ISO certified facility and has been helping kidney patients for almost three decades.