Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) Specialists in Northern Virginia
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited kidney condition that causes fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common form. These cysts can grow over time. They may enlarge the kidneys and gradually affect how well they filter waste from the blood.
Virginia Nephrology Group provides evaluation, monitoring, and polycystic kidney disease treatment for patients throughout Northern Virginia. Our nephrology specialists focus on protecting kidney function, managing complications, and helping patients understand what to expect from their care.
What Are the Symptoms of Polycystic Kidney Disease?
ADPKD can progress for years before noticeable symptoms develop. Regular monitoring is especially important for people with a family history of polycystic kidney disease.
Common PKD symptoms may include:
- High blood pressure
- Back or side pain
- Frequent headaches
- Blood in the urine
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
Symptoms and disease progression vary between patients. A nephrologist can evaluate your kidney health and recommend appropriate testing and ongoing care.
How Is Polycystic Kidney Disease Treated?
PKD treatment focuses on slowing disease progression, protecting kidney function, and addressing complications. Your treatment plan will depend on your kidney function, symptoms, cyst growth, and overall health.
Care may include medication to help slow cyst growth and protect kidney function. Treatment may also include blood pressure management, dietary adjustments, and regular kidney function monitoring.
If ADPKD progresses to advanced kidney disease, your nephrologist can help coordinate dialysis planning or kidney transplant evaluation.
Polycystic Kidney Disease FAQs
Is polycystic kidney disease hereditary?
Yes. Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited condition. ADPKD can run in families, which makes understanding your family medical history important. If a close family member has ADPKD, talk with a healthcare provider about whether evaluation or monitoring may be appropriate.
How is polycystic kidney disease diagnosed?
A PKD specialist may use your medical history, family history, symptoms, and kidney testing to evaluate your condition. Testing can help identify kidney cysts and assess kidney function. Your nephrologist can determine which evaluations are appropriate based on your individual risk factors.
Can polycystic kidney disease cause high blood pressure?
Yes. High blood pressure is a common symptom associated with ADPKD. Managing blood pressure is an important part of polycystic kidney disease treatment because blood pressure control can help protect kidney health.
Can PKD lead to kidney failure?
ADPKD can cause kidney function to decline over time. Some patients eventually develop advanced kidney disease or kidney failure. Disease progression varies. Regular care with a nephrologist allows kidney function to be monitored and treatment plans to be adjusted as needed.
When should I see a nephrologist for PKD?
Consider seeing a nephrologist if you have been diagnosed with PKD, have a family history of the condition, or develop symptoms such as high blood pressure, blood in the urine, or persistent back or side pain. Early evaluation can help establish a plan for monitoring and managing your kidney health.
Schedule an Appointment with a PKD Specialist in Northern Virginia
Virginia Nephrology Group provides personalized care for patients with polycystic kidney disease throughout Northern Virginia. Our nephrology specialists provide ongoing monitoring and ADPKD treatment based on your individual needs.
If you have been diagnosed with PKD or have concerns about your risk, request an appointment with Virginia Nephrology Group today.