Kidney Cyst Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Kidney cyst are abnormalities in the structure of the kidney, in which sacs filled with fluid are formed. The pouch formed can be either a single pocket or multiple pockets.
Cysts can affect one kidney or both. Kidney cysts with only one number generally do not require special treatment because they do not affect kidney function as a whole.
Kidney cysts can be experienced by anyone, both women and men with any age range. However, the older the age, the risk of someone suffering from kidney cysts will increase.
Symptom
If only one kidney cyst is formed and is not large in size, the sufferer generally does not feel specific symptoms. However, if the cysts that are formed are many and large enough, these cysts can suppress the surrounding tissue. This condition can cause complaints such as:
- Low back pain
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
Reason
Until now, not much is known about the exact cause of kidney cysts. One theory is that kidney cysts form due to weakness in the lining of the kidney wall. This condition forms a sac which is then filled with fluid.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of kidney cysts is determined based on supporting examinations in the form of:
- Imaging examination: ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
From this examination, you can find out the exact location of the kidney cysts and their number. The results of this examination not only affect the diagnosis but also the next treatment plan.
- Examination of kidney function
As previously explained, only one cyst generally does not affect kidney function and work. However, if the cysts are large in number and affect both kidneys, the work of this organ will be affected and can be evaluated by examining kidney function.
Treatment
No special treatment is needed for kidney cysts, which are only one in number, do not cause, and do not affect kidney function. Generally, sufferers are only advised to carry out periodic checks to monitor the development of cysts.
Treatment is needed if the cyst grows large, causes symptoms, and causes impaired kidney function. The therapy given can be in the form of:
-
Cyst puncture
Cyst puncture is done by inserting a long needle into the cyst and sucking out the fluid in it.
-
Cyst removal surgery
Surgery is one of the treatment options for kidney cysts that are large in size, appear repeatedly, and cause symptoms in sufferers.
Complications
Kidney cysts that are not treated properly can develop and cause various complications:
-
Infection
An infection in a kidney cyst is characterized by severe pain and fever
-
Broken
When a ruptured kidney causes severe pain, especially in the waist or lower back
-
Urinary obstruction
Large kidney cysts can block the flow of urine and cause swelling of the kidneys (hydronephrosis).
Prevention
Because the exact cause is unknown, there is no specific prevention to reduce the risk of kidney cysts.