Struggle against Polycystic Kidney Disease – part 3
This post from Herbert is about his mother, who suffered from Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease.
Life of My Mother – part 3
read part 2.
It all started with something as small as appetite problems. For my mother these were just heartburn symptoms. When these symptoms evolved in heavy vomit and sleepless night, it was clear that the problem was worse than we initially thought.
Her doctor ordered several tests, which led to a shocking diagnosis. Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), is an inherited condition, which mean that both me and my brothers are still at a high risk of being diagnosed with it.
ADPKD patient’s kidneys are affected by fluid filled cyst, which will lead to an enlargement of the kidneys. Is a condition that could be treated, or at least controlled. My mother got through all the prescribed treatments, including ACE inhibitors, pain killers, antibiotics and even a surgery for kidney stones.
However, my mother was able to endure these treatments for about 20 years.
During this phase, she lost a lot of weight.
She also became quite weak and used to feel tired quite easily.
It was only towards the last 6-7 years that doctors suggested to go for kidney dialysis. Initially, those dialysis sessions used to be held in every 6 months. Later, towards the last 3 years it became more frequent and in the final year it became a monthly affair.
Maintaining the function of the kidneys
Her nephrologist told us that certain rules should be followed in order to maintain the functioning of the kidneys.
- She was required to do regular exercise to maintain a minimum fitness level. She also needed to keep weight under control.
- She had follow a healthy diet avoiding junk food and high calorie food.
- Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided.
- She should check the intake of pain killers. Over use of pain killers can have adverse effects over kidney functioning.
- She had to go for regular check-ups. Always had to keep a check on blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Also knowing about family history and if any inherited disease is present in the family could have been very helpful.
The last months
It was towards the last couple of months that my mother got urinary tract infection (UTI) as well as a few primary kidney infections.
Unfortunately, during that phase the doctor she was consulting throughout was out of the country. So, we had to opt for a new doctor.
Whatever treatment he suggested did not prove to be effective on my mother’s condition. Thus, the infections got spread very quickly and she was put into intensive care.
Pains got increased along with increase in heart rates. She was getting treated for all symptoms, but, her body was not responding well.
Things got worse in the time of two weeks. Internal bleeding could not be brought under control. She took her last breath on 20th September 2008.
Researchers say that there is a strong connection between junk food or unhealthy food intake and chronic diseases. Foods that contain antioxidants can play an important role to protect your body. Healthy and kidney friendly foods are important for people with kidney diseases. Consult your dietitian and your doctor to plan your life style and eating habits in order to fight out your disease and lead a healthier life.
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