Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder featured by the growth
of numerous cysts filled with fluid in the kidneys. PKD cysts can reduce kidney
function, leading to Renal Failure. People with this disease may have symptoms
as follows.
Early stage
Initially, the symptoms may include high blood pressure, abdominal
discomfort, blood in urine and frequent urinary tract infections.
Kidneys are responsible for regulating the blood pressure, so elevated blood
pressure will appear when kidneys are not functioning adequately.
The enlargement of the kidneys will lead to pain in the flank, back or sides
of the abdomen. Another cause of pain is kidney stones, which can be commonly
seen in those with abnormal organs. Cysts on the liver or spleen may also result
in back or abdominal pain.
Hematuria, or blood in urine, may present from the cyst that ruptures, or due
to local damage of the kidney. PKD patients are more likely to be affected by
infections of the urinary tract.
Late stage
With the growth of cysts, your symptoms may worsen, and other organs can be
influenced. About 25% of patients may develop abnormal heart valves, which can
result in palpitations or chest pain. In addition, patients with Polycystic
Kidney Disease are more likely to get aneurysms and outpouchings of the walls of
blood vessels.
Advanced stage
By the age of 60, around 50% of Polycystic Kidney Disease patients will
progress to kidney failure. Unfortunately, symptoms including fatigue, weakness,
anemia, generalized ill feeling, electrolyte imbalance, muscle spasm, etc will
appear.