Your kidney doctors in Des Moines, IA, can help you manage chronic kidney disease
Polycystic kidney disease or PKD is one of the most common kidney disorders. It’s a genetic disorder which causes cysts to form on your kidneys. If you suffer from PKD, it’s nice to know your kidney doctor can help.
The kidney doctors at Iowa Kidney Physicians offer comprehensive kidney services, including diagnosis and treatment of polycystic kidney disease. They have several convenient office locations in Des Moines, IA, to help you.
PKD can cause enlargement of your kidneys, due to multiple cyst formation. PKD can cause a wide variety of problems in several areas of your body. When you have PKD, you might experience some of these common signs and symptoms:
- Reduced kidney function
- High blood pressure
- Blood vessel problems
- Muscle cramping and pain
- Changes in urination amount
- Swelling in your feet and ankles
- Weight loss due to decreased appetite
- Sleeping problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty concentrating
- Itchy, dry skin
- Weakness and severe fatigue
- Chest pain and shortness of breath
- Kidney failure
You can help your body cope with PKD by practicing a few steps like these:
- Maintaining a healthy blood pressure of 120/80 or lower
- Practicing healthy lifestyle habits like regular exercise and stress reduction
- Maintaining a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet
- Avoiding smoking or using tobacco products
- Limiting activities which may lead to back and side trauma, because it may burst the cysts on your kidneys
Medications prescribed by your kidney doctor are a common treatment for PKD. These medications are designed to:
- Prevent fluid build-up
- Relieve swelling
- Boost nutritional levels
- Prevent anemia
- Manage cholesterol levels
- Strengthen bones to prevent fractures
To discover more about the causes and treatment of polycystic kidney disease or PKD, talk with the experts. Call the kidney doctors at Iowa Kidney Physicians in Des Moines, IA. You can reach them in Methodist Plaza at (515) 336-6557, or in Riverpoint at (515) 243-3161, so call now.