Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have been having this dull ache in my lower back again, mostly on the right side. It is not unbearable, but it has been constant for days, and sometimes I feel bloated or heavy around my stomach. I know it is probably the cysts, but it is concerning. I have been drinking a lot of water, but I still feel tired all the time. I also noticed that I am urinating more often at night. Is that normal?
My last ultrasound showed that some cysts had gotten slightly bigger, and that has been on my mind ever since. I am scared that it might turn into kidney failure or something serious. I have been trying to eat low sodium and avoid caffeine, but I feel like I am just waiting for things to get worse.
How often should I be checking my kidney function?
Is there anything I can do to slow it down?
I saw something online about new medications that help protect the kidneys; are those for me?
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
This sounds consistent with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. A dull ache on one side is common when cysts enlarge and stretch the kidney capsule. Mild bloating or heaviness can also happen. Night urination can occur in cystic kidney disease because the kidneys lose some ability to concentrate urine. It does not automatically mean kidney failure.
Feeling tired is normal but we need to check:
• Blood pressure.
• Hemoglobin (to check for anemia).
• Kidney function (Creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate).
Cyst growth is usually gradual. A slight increase in size on ultrasound does not mean sudden kidney failure. Progression is typically slow over the years.
To slow the progression
• Keep blood pressure under tight control.
• Maintain a low-salt diet.
• Keep a healthy weight.
Do not take painkillers like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Drink a moderate amount of fluid (not too much).
There is a medication called Tolvaptan, which can slow cyst growth in selected patients with fast progression. It is not for everyone and needs close monitoring because it can affect the liver and sodium levels. Your nephrologist decides based on age, kidney size, and rate of decline.
Check normal kidney function:
• Stable: 3-6 months.
• More often, if the numbers are changing.
In the advanced stages, dialysis is only necessary when the estimated glomerular filtration rate is very low (usually below 10 to 15). Many patients live many years before they get to that stage, particularly if their blood pressure is well controlled.
Right now, focus on control and monitoring, not fear. Stable follow-up and tight blood pressure management are the strongest tools you have to protect your kidneys.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer.
For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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