Polycystic Kidney Disease
Overview
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Some people have symptoms at birth while others do not have problems until later in life. Symptoms also differ from person to person.
Problems may be:
- Pain in the back or side
- Blood in the urine
- Belly pain
- Frequent urination
Treatments
Treatment
There is no cure. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and prevent health problems. Options are:
-
Medicines to:
- Lower high blood pressure and cholesterol
- Ease pain
- Treat cysts that are bleeding
- Dietary changes, such as drinking plenty of fluids and a low sodium diet
- Dialysis to remove waste from the blood
Some people may need surgery to:
- Drain or remove cysts to ease pain, bleeding, or a blockage
- Remove one or both kidneys— nephrectomy
- Replace a damaged kidney — kidney transplant
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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