Polycystic Kidney Disease: Public Education is a comprehensive guide designed to provide essential information and support to patients, families, and caregivers dealing with this genetic disorder. It is based on our earlier publication, the medical book Polycystic Kidney Disease. The book thoroughly explains PKD, a condition that leads to the formation of numerous cysts in the kidneys, eventually causing various health issues and potentially leading to kidney failure. The book begins by detailing what PKD is, including its genetic causes and the impact it has on kidney function. It describes common symptoms such as high blood pressure, pain in the back and sides, blood in the urine, and recurrent urinary tract infections, helping readers recognize and understand these warning signs. Diagnostic methods are clearly outlined, covering the use of imaging tests like ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs, along with blood and urine tests that assess kidney function. The importance of genetic testing is also discussed, providing insight into how it confirms the presence and type of PKD. Treatment options are a major focus of the book. It explains how to manage symptoms and slow disease progression through controlling high blood pressure with medications such as ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers. For those with advanced PKD, the book discusses critical treatment options such as dialysis and kidney transplantation. It explains the procedures, benefits, and considerations of hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, and provides a clear overview of the kidney transplant process. Polycystic Kidney Disease: Public Education is a vital resource for anyone affected by this condition, providing knowledge, practical advice, and hope for managing PKD effectively and improving quality of life. The information is presented in simple terms to ensure it is understandable for all readers, making it an essential tool for anyone looking to increase their knowledge about PKD and its management.

Polycystic Kidney Disease: Public Education
ISBN: 978-0-6458663-8-4; Exon publications, Brisbane, Australia