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Back pain is a common discomfort and symptom in patients with polycystic kidney disease which is characterized by numerous cysts in the kidneys. These cysts will grow and enlarge along with age and they will oppress and replace normal renal tissues and affect renal functions.
Though PKD is a chronic and progressive disease, the cysts will continue to grow and enlarge. When they oppress the renal tissues and surrounding organs, it will cause pains in the back, abdomen, flank and ribs and hips. The pain is usually intermittent and dull. In some cases, there can be sudden pain and the pain can be sharpened.
Therefore the first step is to take related test to make clear what the exact cause of back pains is so as to take more targeted treatment and measures.
What are the possible causes of back pain in PKD?
1. Dull back pain. Dull pain in back is caused by enlargement of the cysts and the kidneys or the stretch of renal capsule and renal pedicle. It is more common among the female that the male. What is more, large cyst in the liver can also cause pain.
2. Sharp back pain. Sudden pain or sharpened pain is due to cyst rupture, infections and urinary tract obstruction. With the continuous growth and enlargement of the cysts, it will become susceptible to get rupture especially after strenuous exercises or physical traumas. Urinary obstruction due to kidney stone or blood clots as well as infections can all cause back pain to become worse.
How to treat back pain with PKD?
1. Treatment and removal of the underlying causes of back pain such as infections, bleeding, urinary tract obstruction, etc.
2. Have adequate bed rest and avoid over-tiredness.
3. If the pain is severe or persistent, analgesic can be used. But the effects are usually not very good. If the pain can not be relieved and patients’ normal life is affected, surgical removal of the cysts can be considered, but more caution should be paid.
4. Chinese therapies such as herbal medicines, massage and acupuncture, etc.
