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Q:
I was diagnosed with PKD about 9 years ago. I have numerous large cysts in both kidneys as well as small kidney stones. The strange thing is that my kidneys are still functioning normal, but the liver has been basically covered in large cysts and is growing quickly. It is so much enlarged so that is extends down to belly. I am experiencing bouts of liver pains. Blood pressure is poorly controlled, even with three medications. My doctor said that the only way to cope with liver enlargement is liver resection….what can I do now? Would you suggest me?
A:
Polycystic liver is a complication of PKD. PKD means there are clusters of cysts developing on kidneys. The cysts will enlarge over periods of time. For reasons experts also don’t quite understand yet, with cysts in the kidneys growing, many patients are detected cysts in other organs such as brain, pancreas, liver, etc. This may be associated to genetic traits, poor controlling of PKD and other factors. In most clinical cases, liver cysts only affect liver structure but seldom affect liver functions.
High blood pressure accompanies the developing course of PKD. The enlarging cysts oppress healthy renal tissues, resulting in renal ischemia and raising blood pressure. On the other hand, hypertension worsens damages to the kidneys. Management of hypertension is essential to slow down deterioration of PKD. You and your doctor will make a treatment plan and low-sodium dietary therapy to reach targeted BP range within 130/80mmHg. Meanwhile, get rid of bad living habits such as alcohol or cigarette addiction, strenuous exercise, over fatigue, etc. This will help for protecting the kidneys and liver.
The existing cysts in the kidneys and liver can be treated by traditional Chinese Medicine. Herbal treatment can stop secretion of cystic liquid and accelerate permeability on cystic walls to control and gradually shrink the cysts and improve damaged kidney/liver function.
You may choose one of doctors below for more detailed suggestions.
