
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.

skylark1432
Im new to this site. The first of June, I came down with a urinary infection, then a yeast infection. My doctor put me on meds and they didnt work so he changed them again. Then last week I noticed swelling in my tummy area and my chest was hurting. (both new problems). The nephrologist did a sonogram and my kidneys are bigger and the cysts are bigger than the previous scan (which I was expecting). But how do I handle the swelling in my tummy? I feel huge and look pregnant now. Is this a common problem? Is this a permanent problem? Can I go back to exercising?
Just looking for answers.
Thanks
Christy
Just looking for answers.
Thanks
Christy
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I have been told that with PKD you do develop a bit of a PKD tummy.
I have noticed that as well. I think it all just goes hand in hand with having PKD.
Adult symptoms usually begin after age 30 as the cysts gradually enlarge, destroying healthy kidney tissue and increasing kidney size. The pressure from the enlarged kidneys causes back pain and abdominal swelling.
I hope this helps ;)
I don't know that much about PKD but I do look pregnant! I found Karen's post interesting and I hope to learn more here.
Hope you have a good day.
Hugs FibroFog
If you don't like the look, all you have to do is push back!Even a little exercise does everyone good. You should really ask your doctor if you can, but if you currently have normal kidney function I don't see why not.
The way I'm thinking is that if my kidneys are gonna add about 30 pounds, I'm aiming to lose 40. It doesn't matter if I get there or not, but the attempt is all that matters.
There are about 12 million of us with PKD that's hardly alone!
I say you should kick your doctor in the head and say all of the questions your asking.
You need to know your current size.
You need to know your amount of funcion..
You need to know your diet (if any).
You need to know your pain meds.
You need to know your food restrictions.
You need to know your alternative meds.
You need to know your future plans.
You need to know your all you need to know.
Better yet go to the hospital film records department and ask for a CD with your latest ultrasound.
Sorry if this is a little rough, but it pisses me off when doctors try to keep up the good bedside manner while thinking we're idiots. It's like they keep thinking of that movie line, "You can't handle the truth!".
The increase in "tummy" size is to be expected with PKD according to my nephrologist and in all other information that I have read. The key is, in my opinion be aware of your body, exercise when you can and for as long as your endurance allows. We are all different. Eat responsibly and try to be as healthy and body conscious as we can be. ;)
Also, I have to agree that you should go to the Dr as often as they recommend, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Get your kidney level readings, and don't be afraid to mention the slightest problems that you are having.
This is just my opinion.
Fast food is bad. I've done it on occassion, even knowing it's bad.
I read that eating less salt is good, but eating no salt is bad.
Option: make your own salt. Mix 60% regular salt, 30% potassium ?something (salt replacement), and 10% epsom salt. Mix it all together and pour into your salt shaker. You won't even realize you're using less.
I haven't tried it myself. All I'm doing is not adding more salt to my fries. Damn! Bad again.
And Karen ease up on the meds! Only you know how much pain you have, but I find that chemical meds have side effects. Maybe you should try an herbal med.
Pro: no side-effects.
Con: time consuming to make.
My nephrologist has told me to only use Tylenol, but they don't have the Extreme Extra Super-Strength version that I need.