Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease — causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a multisystemic and progressive disorder. It is characterized by cyst formation and enlargement in the kidney and other organs, such as liver, pancreas, and spleen. It is the most prevalent, potentially fatal, genetic disorder.

Known side effects of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

There are several symptoms of ADPKD. The most common noticeable complication caused by this disease is pain in the abdomen, side, or lower back. This usually last sfrom several minutes to a few days, and can be severe. Pain can be a result of a cyst becoming bigger, bleeding into one or more cysts, a kidney stone, a kidney or other parts of the urinary system, such as the bladder. Another symptom of this disease is blood in the urine or haematuria, which is also another common initial symptom of ADPKD.

High blood pressure is also another side effect of the disease, which can be accompanied by a persistent headache, double or blurred vision, nosebleeds, and shortness of breath. Kidney stones, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and loss of kidney function, known as chronic kidney disease (CKD) are the other side effects of ADPKD.

Body systems harmed by autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

The main body systems harmed by ADPKD are the urinary, digestive, and cardiovascular systems.

List of foods or nutrients that prevent Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

There are certain foods that can help support the kidneys and prevent kidney diseases like ADPKD. According to an article published by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, eating high-quality protein and smaller portions of protein can help support the kidneys. In addition, staying hydrated by drinking enough water may help slow down the progression of a kidney failure. Also, a person with a damaged kidney must eat foods low in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium since the kidney cannot function normally.

Treatments, management plans for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

Currently, there is no treatment that can stop or slow down the progression of the disease. However, there are ways on how to manage the disease for the improvement of ADPKD patients and their family. One of these ways is to be informed about the nature of the disease, its possible complications, prognosis, and the genetic implications for other family members. Since it is hereditary, a screening should be done before a person starts their own family.

It is also important for an ADPKD patient to refrain from getting involved in contact sports, such as rugby or boxing. This type of sports can risk abdominal trauma and trigger haematuria or even lead to the rupture of an enlarged kidney. ADPKD is also associated with cardiovascular diseases, therefore, the patient should refrain from smoking, maintain a healthy body weight, limit salt intake, and regularly perform exercises that are not too strenuous, such as swimming or walking.

Where to learn more

• Grapefruit naturally prevents formation of kidney cysts
• The Dangers of Dehydration (Part II)
• Prevent or reverse kidney disease and renal failure in cats with Slippery Elm Bark
• Alkalize Your Body With Roots – Top 8 Choices to Reduce Inflammation and Fight Disease
• Baking Soda Prevents Kidney Disease, Renal Failure and Kidney Dialysis

Summary

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is the most prevalent, potentially fatal, genetic disorder wherein a cyst is formed and the kidneys are enlarged.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease causes pain, haematuria, hypertension, kidney stones, UTIs, and chronic kidney disease.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease can be prevented by drinking enough water, eating high-quality protein and smaller portions of protein, and limiting sodium intake.

Sources include:

EMedicine.Medscape.com

TheLancet.com

NHS.uk

NIDDK.NIH.gov

Patient.info