How to Slow Down the Progression of the Disease of PKD

Up to now, a complete cure for the disease of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is still not available. However, we can adopt proper methods to slow down the progression of this disease. So patients of PKD should pay attention to the following signs, symptoms and complications:

1, high blood pressure. Controlling high blood pressure may delay the progression of the disease and slow further kidney damage. Combining a low-sodium, low-fat diet that's moderate in protein and calorie content with eliminating smoking, increasing exercise and reducing stress may help control high blood pressure.
However, medications are usually needed to control high blood pressure.
Medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may be used to control high blood pressure in people with polycystic kidney disease, though more than one drug may be necessary for good blood pressure control.

2, pain. Chronic pain, usually located in your back or your side, is a common symptom of polycystic kidney disease. Often, the pain is mild and you can control it with over-the-counter medications containing acetaminophen. For some people, however, the pain is more severe and constant. In rare cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove cysts if they're large enough to cause pressure and pain.

3,bladder or kidney infections. Prompt treatment of infections with antibiotics is necessary to prevent kidney damage.

4, blood in the urine. You'll need to drink lots of fluids as soon as you notice blood in your urine, in order to dilute the urine. Dilution may help prevent obstructive clots from forming in your urinary tract. Bed rest also may help decrease the bleeding.

5, kidney failure. If your kidneys lose their ability to remove wastes and extra fluids from your blood, you'll eventually need either dialysis or a kidney transplant.

6, liver cysts. Nonsurgical management of liver cysts includes avoidance of hormone replacement therapy. Other options in rare cases include drainage of symptomatic cysts if they're not too numerous, partial removal of the liver or even liver transplantation.


7, aneurysms. If you have polycystic kidney disease and a family history of ruptured intracranial aneurysms, your doctor may recommend regular screening for intracranial aneurysms. If an aneurysm is discovered, surgical clipping of the aneurysm to reduce the risk of bleeding may be an option, depending on its size. Nonsurgical treatment of small aneurysms may involve controlling high blood pressure and high cholesterol and quitting smoking.