Diagnosis and Prevention
Diagnosis
Ultrasounds are the cheapest, most common form of testing for Polycystic Kidney Disease. They are a reliable way to detect any cysts that may be growing in your kidney. Genetic testing may also be done, but this is not as reliable as an ultrasound. Genetic tests do not always identify if you have the disease. However, they are beneficial if the ultrasound is unclear, or if the person being tested has a family history of PKD and wants to either donate a kidney or start a family.
Prevention
Although there is no known cure for Polycystic Kidney Disease, there are ways to help prevent it from getting too severe. The most important thing to remember is that a healthy blood pressure is ideal. Taking medication and limiting the amount of salty foods you eat are the easiest ways to keep things stable. After that, strive to stay at a healthy weight and exercise regularly. Make sure to stop smoking and limit your alcohol use.
Did you know...
- Are you currently or often tired? As contradictory as it may sound, one of the best things you can do is exercise! It gives you more energy by improving your blood flow and increasing your oxygen throughout your body. You don't need to do much; a brisk walk is all it takes!
- Need a quick cool down? Try drinking some hot liquid. It's true! As counterintuitive as it may seem, the heat from hot liquids will raise your body temperature. This will heat you up and cause you to sweat. The increased perspiration will wind up helping you feel cooler as it evaporates. Try it out!
- Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!
- A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
- There are many factors that contribute to your body odor, but one of the strongest links is our diet. This may be some bad news for meat-lovers because many studies have shown that those who refrained from or ate less red meat were judged as being more pleasant smelling. The meat sweats are real, and they don’t smell great!