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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LPenrod 02/20/2011

Should I just use a heating pad or do you alternate between heat and cold?

My heating pad is driving me crazy. It won't stay on long enough through the night.

When I was in the hospital one time and asked for a heating pad. Being a hospital, they couldn't give me a $40 heating pad. They gave me what I am sure was a $1,000+ contraption. I got the most magical, amazing thing. It was a liquid filled system. It automatically alternated between quite warm and luke warm. It could switch between any temperatures in a preprogramed way on a dime. I really want one.

Does anyone know what they are called and if I stand any chance of insurance paying for one?

LPenrod 02/20/2011

I think I found them. Gaymar T/Pump.

It was amazing. Has anyone used one of these?

norma67 02/20/2011

I've never heard or used such a thing, but it does sound fantastic. They are pretty pricey, but if you could use something like this rather than pain pills, I don't know why insurance wouldn't pay for a good portion of it. Talk to you doc and have him write you a perscription for it. Can't hurt to try... Good luck!

LPenrod 02/21/2011

I found some on eBay and bought one for a song. I will let you know how it goes.

norma67 02/21/2011

Yes, do let me know as I would buy one for my back. I have spinal stenosis that is absolutely KILLING me, slow but sure. Add a big belly from kidneys growing, is bad...:( Let me know how you make out ok?

love,
Norma...

deleted_user 03/04/2011

I saw something like this used this week with cold. My friend had knee surgery and it was a pump that was put into a small cooler of ice water and the water was continuously circulated in a pad surrounding his knee. Seems like this could work for heated water as well. In the old days they used to use hot water bottles!

LPenrod 03/06/2011

I really like this.

I got a Gaymar TP-200.

It is an older model and only goes up to 105 degrees. It stays on all night and covers a large area (15" x 22").

I wish it was a little warmer so it would heat a little deeper. The newer models (TP-500 and greater) go up to 107 degrees.

I'm going to see if my insurance company will buy me one. If not, I can find them out there for

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