Symptom 5. Urinary Tract Infections: A Recurring Issue for People with Polycystic Kidney Disease
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are another symptom that individuals with Polycystic Kidney Disease frequently grapple with. A UTI is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. However, for those with PKD, UTIs often originate in the kidneys, a condition known as pyelonephritis.
The susceptibility to UTIs in PKD patients can be attributed to the structural changes in the kidneys caused by the cysts. The expanded cysts can cause urine to stagnate or flow backward into the kidneys, providing a conducive environment for bacteria to grow and lead to infections.
Symptoms of a UTI can include a persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, passing frequent, small amounts of urine, and urine that appears cloudy or strong-smelling. In some cases, it might also cause lower abdomen pain.
While UTIs are typically easy to treat with antibiotics, recurrent infections can pose a risk to overall kidney health in those with PKD. Therefore, it’s vital to recognize and treat UTIs promptly to prevent them from leading to more serious complications.
The connection between UTIs and PKD is not merely one of cause and effect. Some research suggests that repeated UTIs might contribute to faster cyst growth, although more studies are needed to fully understand this relationship. (5)
