Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Support Group

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a progressive, genetic disorder of the kidneys. It occurs in humans and other organisms. PKD is characterised by the presence of multiple cysts (polycystic) in both kidneys. The disease can also damage the liver, pancreas and rarely the heart and brain.

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polykid 08/05/2009

I am just curious but I am 25 years old and am in mid stage 4 of PKD. Is that normal age that people start failing? My mom thinks it is advanced for my age. My dad had a transplant when he was in his 30s. Thanks for your help. :)

deleted_user 08/05/2009

the only thing normal about PKD is that it is different in everyone, even in the same family. many people never progress to kidney failure, dying of other problems.
the progression of the disease can't really be anticipated but it is helpful to live a healthy life. the better you treat your body the better your kidneys like it.

deleted_user 08/05/2009

The severity of the disease can sometimes run in families and how your dad progressed can be a predictor for you, although as spiderwoman8 says, it's different from person to person.
My grandma went on dialysis at 35, but my mom lasted until she was 59. I'm 42 and getting ready to start, my brother is 41 and not far behind me. So, it's hard to say what's "normal" with this disease. I know people who've had transplants in their teens, so you never know.
On the other side of this coin, how are you doing? I know how stressful this process can be at my age, I can't imagine how stressful it's been for someone so young. If you have any questions, just want to vent or need advice, please feel free to post a comment here. You're in the right place for support.
Tami

deleted_user 08/05/2009

I personally think that you are a little advanced. However, as stated a few times before, everyone is different. Do the best you can to avoid consuming things that the kidneys have a hard time with. And I also hear that people who go on dialysis feel much better than they did before. So hopefully this will be the case for you. Have you started asking people you know if they are willing to be checked as a match for a transplant for you? You will be in my thoughts and prayers. And as Tami said, you are in the right place for questions, answers for others, and venting if you need to. Keep us posted as to how you are doing ok?

Jenn

deleted_user 08/06/2009

Jenn,

I have to concur with Spiderwoman - I'm 58, and still not in need of dialysis. My function hasn't really changed for 10 years. But my Dad died of the disease at 39.
You may be more advanced than any of us wants you to be, but remember that you are a unique individual, and only PART of a statistic.
I have to remind myself of that every day.

Deb

CoachRichie 08/07/2009

Hi, Polykid!

Although humans have a tendency to compare themselves to others, in the case of PKD, it's not a good idea to compare yourself to anyone, especially members of your own family.

Every case of PKD is different. Your medical team treats you (hopefully) as an individual. This is good. You are you and that is good!

Peace and Blessings!
CoachRichie

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