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.
Hi Everyone,
I am new to this.....I’m 40 years old and was diagnosed a few years ago with PKD. My kidney function is good, many cysts in kidneys and liver and have high blood pressure.
I am wondering about the pain we experience with PKD? I have been have been having abdominal pain for years and recently have been experiencing lower back, hip, flank and groin pain. I was recently in the ER with what they think was a kidney stone passing. I have had many tests done, MRI, CT scans and such. Currently my kidney function is good and my nephrologist assures me my PKD shouldn’t be causing me any pain....my question is could this pain be related to PKD? Do others experience this?
thank you!
In answer to your questions, yes and yes! PKD cysts cause pain when developing, when they press on surrounding organs etc, when they rupture and when they bleed. A number of people have come to this site over the years complaining that their doctors have said PKD doesn’t cause pain. These doctors don’t know what they’re talking about and are completely wrong. The pain can appear in areas such as the groin ie seemingly remote from the kidneys, because pain can be referred to other areas through a shared nerve supply. Don’t let your doctor try to tell you otherwise.