Will PKD Cause Elevation of Blood Pressure

2014-09-09 06:14

PKD is a genetic kidney problem that can cause cyst formation in kidney, but recently, some people complain their blood pressure becomes higher and higher after the diagnosis of Polycystic Kidney Disease, so why is this?

Will PKD cause elevation of blood pressure?

As for this question, I am afraid the answer is “Yes”. Polycystic Kidney Disease indeed cause high blood pressure and this is especially common when kidney problem develops to advanced stage.

Kidney is a organ with multiple functions. In cases of PKD, large amounts of cysts are formed in the kidney. They enlarge over time, which may cause damages on kidney tissues and thus lead to increase of renin. On the one hand, high level of renin cause elevation of Angiotensin II which can shrink renal blood vessles and cause elevation of blood pressure. On the another hand, both high levels of renin and angiotensin II can result in retention of water and sodium in the blood, which also contributes to the elevation of blood pressure.

What are the bad effects of high blood pressure on PKD?

High blood pressure is a symptom of Polycystic Kidney Disease, but if left untreated, it will cause bad effects on PKD. Well, what are the bad effects of high blood pressure on PKD patients?

1. Persistent high blood pressure damages kidney tissues directly

Although high blood pressure is not the real cause of kidney damages in PKD, but if we leave it alone, it will damage renal blood vessels and lead to worsening of kidney condition.

2. High blood pressure accelerates PKD progression

High blood pressure is a symptom of PKD, and it accelerates illness progression if left alone. Therefore, controlling blood pressure in normal range is very important.

In medicine, many medicines like ACE inhibitors, ARBs and Chinese herbs can be used to tightly control high blood prssure. PKD patients should choose the right one according to their specific kidney condition, so as to avoid causing unnecessary health tissues.

Leave your problems here and you will get nephrologists' advice with free of charge!