Polycystic kidney disease is a a genetic disorder that affects the kidneys and other organs of the body. According to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, it can be present in 1 in 1,000 Americans, with some individuals remaining asymptomatic. There are two types polycystic kidney disease: autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive. Autosomal dominant is present in both adults and children and usually does not present itself until middle age. Autosomal recessive rapidly progresses upon onset in infancy.
Symptoms
Polycystic kidney disease is characterized by numerous cystic formations in the kidney. These increase the size of the kidney due to swelling and lead to chronic kidney disease, hypertension and kidney infections. Patients can develop flank pain, headaches, an increase in abdominal girth, blood in the urine, frequent urination and kidney stones. Patients can have liver cysts as well, but these rarely cause symptoms
Eating for Hypertension
Managing blood pressure is important for slowing the progression of the disorder. Eating a low salt and low fat diet can help to keep blood pressure under control. Patients can lower blood pressure by following the National Institutes of Health's DASH diet. The principles of the diet include eating more fruits and vegetables, increasing fat free and low fat milk products, and limiting sweets and fatty foods. Reducing total sodium intake will also help to decrease your blood pressure.
Eating for Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease requires a strict diet. It is particularly important to get the appropriate amount of calories, protein, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, fluid, vitamins and minerals. Your nephrologist will monitor lab values and help you direct your diet as the kidney function changes. Monitoring fluid intake is important as kidney disease tends to lead to fluid retention, particularly in its more advanced stages.
Eating for Kidney Stones
The diet for kidney stones may conflict with the diet for chronic kidney disease, depending upon the specific kidney functions that remain. In patients with normal kidney function, drinking 2 to 3 quarts of fluid a day may help to treat small stones according to the Mayo Clinic. A nephrologist or other physician should be able to help you know how much fluid per day your kidney can handle without leading to fluid retention. There is some evidence that drinking black tea, green tea, lemon juice and orange juice may help to decrease the occurrence of kidney stones.
