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Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited condition where many fluid-filled cysts grow in the kidneys, enlarging them and gradually reducing their function.
Causes & risk factors
- Inherited gene changes (usually autosomal dominant)
- A family history of the disease
- Rarely, a recessive form appearing in childhood
Common symptoms
- Back or side (flank) pain
- Blood in urine
- High blood pressure
- Abdominal fullness
- Repeated urine infections
- Headache
Tests & diagnosis
- Kidney ultrasound
- Creatinine
- Kidney function (RFT)
- CT or MRI of kidneys
- Genetic testing in some cases
Treatment & management
- Good blood pressure control to protect the kidneys
- Plenty of fluids and treating urine infections promptly
- Pain management for cyst-related pain
- Specific cyst-slowing medicines in selected patients
- Dialysis or transplant if kidney failure develops
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe flank pain or blood in the urine
- A sudden severe headache (to check for a linked brain aneurysm)
- High blood pressure that is hard to control
- A family history with new kidney symptoms
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about polycystic kidney disease. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is polycystic kidney disease hereditary?
Yes, the common form is passed down and each child of an affected parent has about a 50% chance of inheriting it. Family screening is often advised.
Does it always cause kidney failure?
Not everyone reaches kidney failure, but many do over decades. Good blood pressure control and specialist care can slow the decline.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.