Understanding Polycystic Kidney Disease and How Dr. Shilpa, Best Doctor for Kidneys in Chandigarh, Can Help You

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, which can lead to enlarged kidneys, high blood pressure, kidney infections, and eventually kidney failure if not managed properly. Though PKD is a chronic condition, timely diagnosis and expert care can significantly slow its progression and preserve kidney function.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with PKD, you're not alone—and you're not without options. Dr. Shilpa, widely regarded as the best kidney doctor in Chandigarh, offers specialized care for patients with PKD, helping them manage symptoms, delay complications, and lead a better quality of life.

What Is Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)?

PKD is a genetic disorder where clusters of cysts—non-cancerous sacs filled with fluid—develop primarily in the kidneys. Over time, these cysts can grow large and multiply, causing the kidneys to become significantly enlarged and lose function.

There are two main types:

Autosomal Dominant PKD (ADPKD)

• Most common form (90% of cases)
• Symptoms typically appear between ages 30–50
• Only one parent needs to carry the gene for inheritance

Autosomal Recessive PKD (ARPKD)

• Rarer, but more severe
• Can be diagnosed in infancy or childhood
• Both parents must carry the defective gene

PKD can also cause cysts in the liver and other organs and is associated with aneurysms, heart valve abnormalities, and diverticulosis.

Common Symptoms of PKD

PKD often progresses silently in the early stages. As cysts grow, symptoms may include:

• High blood pressure (often the first sign)
• Flank or back pain
• Enlarged, palpable kidneys
• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Recurrent kidney or urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones
• Increased abdominal size
• Fatigue

If not properly managed, PKD can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and eventually end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.

How Is PKD Diagnosed?

Early diagnosis is critical for effective management. Dr. Shilpa uses a combination of tools and tests to accurately identify PKD:

• Ultrasound – Most common and non-invasive screening method
• CT scan or MRI – For detailed imaging and detecting smaller cysts
• Blood tests – To assess kidney function (creatinine, GFR)
• Urine tests – To check for blood or protein in the urine
• Genetic testing – Especially useful if family history is unclear

If you have a family history of PKD, screening is recommended even if you have no symptoms.

How Dr. Shilpa Helps Manage PKD Effectively

Managing PKD requires a multi-faceted approach involving kidney function preservation, blood pressure control, infection prevention, and lifestyle changes. Dr. Shilpa, with her vast experience in nephrology and kidney disorders, provides personalized, evidence-based care to help patients manage PKD effectively.

Slowing Disease Progression

There is currently no cure for PKD, but treatments can delay its progression. Dr. Shilpa focuses on:

• Strict blood pressure control (often using ACE inhibitors or ARBs)
• Managing proteinuria
• Tolvaptan (a vasopressin receptor antagonist) in select patients to slow cyst growth
• Monitoring and treating chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages early

Her proactive management aims to keep kidneys functioning for as long as possible.

Treating Complications

PKD often leads to several complications. Dr. Shilpa is equipped to manage them, including:

• Kidney infections – Prompt diagnosis and antibiotics
• Kidney stones – Pain control and stone removal strategies
• Hematuria – Monitoring and conservative treatment
• Liver cysts – Rarely require intervention, but monitored closely
• Aneurysms – Referrals for brain imaging in at-risk patients

She closely monitors patients for signs of kidney failure and helps plan for dialysis or transplantation if needed.

Nutritional and Lifestyle Guidance

A kidney-friendly lifestyle is essential for managing PKD. Dr. Shilpa provides:

• Customized diet plans to reduce sodium, control protein, and limit phosphorus and potassium
• Hydration advice to prevent kidney stones
• Weight management and exercise routines
• Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation

She believes in empowering patients to take charge of their health with practical, sustainable changes.

Since PKD is hereditary, Dr. Shilpa also guides families on:

• Genetic counseling for at-risk family members
• Prenatal considerations in families with ADPKD or ARPKD
• Screening recommendations for siblings and children

Early detection in family members enables timely monitoring and care.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Shilpa – Best Kidney Specialist in Chandigarh

• Extensive experience in managing genetic and chronic kidney diseases
• Expertise in diagnosing and treating PKD with latest therapies
• Personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s stage and lifestyle
• Patient-centric approach with clear communication and ongoing support
• Access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities in Chandigarh

Patients across Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula trust Dr. Shilpa for her compassionate care, medical precision, and commitment to preserving kidney health.

When Should You See a Kidney Specialist for PKD?

You should consult Dr. Shilpa if:

• You have a family history of PKD
• You’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure at a young age
• You’re experiencing frequent UTIs, hematuria, or flank pain
• Imaging reports show multiple kidney cysts
• Your kidney function is gradually declining

Early intervention is the key to preventing kidney failure and maintaining quality of life.

PKD is Manageable—With the Right Care

Polycystic Kidney Disease can be a serious and progressive condition, but it is not a life sentence. With expert care, early diagnosis, and comprehensive management, many people with PKD can lead healthy, active lives.

Dr. Shilpa, the best kidney doctor in Chandigarh, offers unmatched expertise and compassionate care for PKD patients. From advanced diagnostics to long-term monitoring and lifestyle counseling, she stands by you at every step of your kidney health journey.

Take control of PKD with expert support from Dr. Shilpa—your trusted kidney health partner in Chandigarh.

Our Services

• Diabetic Kidney Disease
• Acute Kidney Injury
• Fluid Balance
• Kidney Biopsy
• Dialysis Catheter
• Permanent Catheterisation

Our Treatments

• Diabetes/Sugar
• Hypertension/BP
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Protein in Urine
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Dialysis
• Kidney Transplant
• Kidney Stone
• Electrolyte Disorder
• Polycystic Kidney Disease
• Glomeruldnephritis/AKI