Symptom 12. Shortness of Breath: A Distressing Indicator of Polycystic Kidney Disease
Shortness of breath, medically termed as dyspnea, might seem unrelated to Polycystic Kidney Disease, yet it emerges as a common symptom in individuals with PKD. While the kidneys and lungs are distinct organs with different functions, their operations are interconnected. When the kidneys falter, the repercussions can extend to the respiratory system.
The link between PKD and shortness of breath is multifaceted. One contributing factor is fluid overload. When kidneys aren’t able to remove excess fluid efficiently, it can build up in the body, including the lungs, making breathing difficult. This fluid build-up can lead to a condition called pulmonary edema, a serious complication characterized by shortness of breath.
Another factor tying PKD to dyspnea is anemia, a condition marked by a lower than normal red blood cell count. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. When their number dwindles, it results in less oxygen reaching the tissues, including the lungs, leading to breathlessness.
Shortness of breath in PKD can also be linked to high blood pressure. Hypertension can strain the heart, causing it to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. This increased effort can result in a lack of oxygen, leading to shortness of breath.
Shortness of breath might seem like a symptom exclusive to respiratory disorders, yet its appearance in Polycystic Kidney Disease is a stark reminder of how interconnected the human body is. The kidneys, the lungs, the heart – all function in tandem, and a disorder in one can reverberate throughout the body, manifesting in unexpected symptoms. (12)
