When left untreated, polycystic kidney disease (PKD) can lead to kidney failure, and though there’s no cure, it is possible to slow the growth of cysts and manage the symptoms effectively. The team of nephrologists at Metro Renal Associates in Washington, DC, is experienced in helping men and women with polycystic kidney disease maintain their renal health and keep complications at bay. For help with polycystic kidney disease, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
PKD is a genetic disease that causes cysts (round fluid-filled sacs) to form in your kidneys, enlarging and changing the shape of this vital organ. The cysts vary in size, and the seriousness of PKD is related to the number and size of the cysts you have. If you have too many cysts, or your cysts are very big, you’re at risk of progressively losing kidney function.
About half of people with PKD have kidney failure by age 60. Other complications of polycystic kidney disease include:
Because PKD runs in families, you may be concerned about passing it to your children. To pass on PKD, both parents must carry the gene for the disease. If you have PKD and are considering having children, the team at Metro Renal Associates can refer you and your partner to a genetic counselor who can evaluate your risks and provide you with personalized support for family planning concerns.
Most people don’t show signs of PKD until they’re between the ages of 30-50, though in rare cases children have symptoms. If you have PKD, you may first experience symptoms such as:
The team at Metro Renal Associates usually diagnoses PKD through an ultrasound but may recommend genetic testing if imaging tests are inconclusive.
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for PKD, but thankfully, through early diagnosis and taking steps to keep your kidneys healthy, you can slow and even prevent serious complications from PKD. Treatments for PKD at Metro Renal Associates include:
PKD may be painful and frightening, but if you know how to manage it, you can keep your kidneys healthier for longer. To schedule an appointment at Metro Renal Associates, call or use the online booking feature.