Many people live full, meaningful lives with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) for decades. Living with PKD often means managing symptoms, protecting kidney health, and navigating uncertainty over time.
You are not alone in that.
Managing PKD symptoms
Common symptoms of polycystic kidney disease may include:
- High blood pressure
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Fatigue
- Kidney infections
- Changes in kidney function
Understanding your symptoms helps you work with your healthcare team effectively.
→ Learn more about PKD symptoms and symptom management
Kidney health and nutrition
Nutrition plays an important role in managing PKD and supporting overall kidney health.
Explore guidance on:
- Kidney-friendly eating
- Sodium and fluid balance
- Protein intake
- Reading lab results
→ Explore PKD nutrition resources
Understanding lab tests
Monitoring kidney function is part of living with PKD. You may see terms like:
- eGFR
- Creatinine
- Urine protein
Knowing what these tests mean can reduce anxiety.
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→ Understand PKD lab tests and urine tests
Mental health and PKD
Living with a chronic kidney disease can affect emotional wellbeing. Anxiety about progression and uncertainty is common.
Mental health support is part of whole-person care.
→ Explore mental health and PKD resources