Signs and Symptoms of Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic Kidney Disease, also known as PKD, is a genetic disease in which clusters of fluid-filled cysts develop on and around the kidneys. Kidney damage can be caused if there are too large or too numerous cysts. The first noticeable signs of this condition often do not develop until a person is in their 30s or 40s. Signs and symptoms of Polycystic Kidney Disease are as below.

1. High blood pressure

High blood pressure is the most common symptom of Polycystic Kidney Disease. Some patients discover this disease with a diagnosis of high blood pressure. In turn, hypertension can lead to kidney damage, so it is important to bring blood
pressure into a healthy range.

2. Back or side pain

Due to the presence of the cysts, the kidneys become larger. In some cases, patients experience pain in the back or side as a result of the disease. Some people with PKD may notice increase in the size of the abdomen.

3. Urinary changes

People with Polycystic Kidney Disease may suffer from frequent or recurrent urinary tract infection. Those who also have kidney stones may detect blood in their urine. Frequent urination is also associated with this disorder.

4. Headache

Headache is also a sign of Polycystic Kidney Disease which may often by ignored because headaches may commonly happen in many other conditions.
Besides, approximately 1/4 of patients with PKD may have a floppy valve in the heart, which can cause a fluttering feeling in the chest and may also lead to chest pain.