Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) affects millions of people, and worldwide, it’s the most common genetic cause of kidney failure. Although there’s no cure for PKD, it can be managed. Knowing what options are available is important for helping patients play a more proactive role in their treatment.
Chadi Saad, MD, and the team at Nephrocare MD LLC offer the most advanced treatments for PKD, helping patients improve their health and their quality of life. Here, learn the basics of PKD and what treatments are available to help you.
PKD is a genetic condition that causes numerous cysts to grow in your kidneys, enlarging the organs and preventing them from working properly. There are two types of PKD: autosomal dominant PKD, the most common type, and autosomal recessive PKD, which is rare.
The cysts that form in kidneys are filled with fluid, and they can range in size from very tiny to quite large. The severity of PKD can vary significantly from one person to another, based on the size and number of cysts, the progression of the disease, and other factors.
PKD can cause a number of symptoms and complications, including:
Your symptoms can also vary based on the severity of the disease and how far it’s progressed.
PKD treatment begins with lifestyle changes, including following a healthy eating plan low in salt and proteins to reduce strain on your kidneys. Regular exercise also supports kidney function while relieving the stress associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Staying hydrated is also important, but you should follow Dr. Saad’s instructions on fluid intake to avoid stressing your kidneys.
Most patients with PKD require medication to manage their blood pressure, relieve discomfort, and treat urinary tract infections. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with headaches and other discomfort, but avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs like ibuprofen) since these can tax your kidneys.
Tolvaptan is an FDA-approved medicine that helps slow the progression of PKD and helps protect kidney function. It can interact with some other medicines, though, and it can also cause liver problems. If we prescribe Tolvaptan, we’ll also prescribe regular blood tests to monitor your liver function.
Sometimes, a very large and painful cyst may be removed. However, as PKD progresses, you may require dialysis or kidney transplant.
PKD and all types of chronic kidney disease require regular checkups, lab testing, and diagnostic imaging tests to keep track of your condition and your response to treatment. If you have PKD, Dr. Saad and his team can help you manage your condition and optimize your kidney health and function.
Learn more by calling 313-960-6605 or booking an appointment online with Dr. Saad and the team at Nephrocare MD LLC in Dearborn, Michigan, today.