Symptoms of KIDNEY, POLYCYSTIC

Early stages of polycystic kidneys may be associated with blood in the urine. Repeated kidney infections are another common symptom. When the kidney has enlarged considerably, a mass may be felt in the abdomen. Hypertension may occur due to the disorder of the kidney. Frequently, there will be no symptoms until such time that the cysts replace so much of the normal kidney structure that kidney failure occurs. Renal failure produces pain in the lower back and decreased urine output. There is usually increasing fatigue and generalized weakness. Fluid retention occurs, leading to weight gain and generalized swelling, especially around the ankles and the eyes. Nausea, vomiting and bad breath may occur. Diarrhea may develop. Shortness of breath and chest pain develops in some. There is itching of the skin and in women of child-bearing age, there is cessation of menstruation.