Kidney Cyst Symptoms

Kidneys are one of the vital organs of the body. They play an important role in the process of excretion; i.e., filtering out all the toxins and wastes in the body. Sometimes, due to certain reasons, abnormal fluid or air filled sacs are formed in the kidneys. These are known as kidney cysts. The cysts formed in the kidneys are similar to those formed in other parts of the body. In most of the cases, kidney cysts are fluid filled and lead to abnormal functioning of the kidneys. This disorder of the kidneys is commonly observed in older adults (above 50 years of age).

The exact cause of kidney cysts is unknown; however, certain factors like heredity and genetics are believed to the reasons for the same. In case of simple kidney cyst, only a single cyst is formed; whereas, in case of Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), more than one or multiple cysts are formed. Kidney cysts can be divided into two types: simple kidney cyst and complex kidney cyst. Simple kidney cysts hardly lead to kidney cancer. On the contrary, there are high chances of a complex kidney cyst leading to kidney cancer. Secondly, these cysts can rupture, leading to severe complications. So, what are the noticeable kidney cyst symptoms? Let us take a look at it in detail.

Symptoms of Kidney Cyst

Symptoms of kidney cyst vary according to the type. Usually in case of simple kidney cyst, no symptoms are observed. Therefore, many times, simple kidney cyst remains undetected. One should note that a majority of people over 50 years of age suffer from simple kidney cyst, but, are unaware of it. On the other hand, people who have suffered from urinary tract infections in the past are more prone to suffer from kidney cyst. Following are other symptoms observed in case of simple kidney cyst:

• Frequent urinary tract infection
• Pain in upper abdomen
• Fever
• Chills
• Back pain

The aforementioned symptoms are usually observed when the cyst grows in size. On the contrary, in case of complex kidney cyst, many different symptoms are observed. They include:

• Urinary tract infection
• Blood in urine
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Lower back pain
• High blood pressure
• Frequent urination
• Fever

It should be noted that calcium containing kidney cysts can lead to kidney stones. It is one of the most painful conditions in human beings. Kidney stone occurs when the level of calcium and uric acid in the body increases above normal. When suffering from kidney stone, symptoms like severe lower abdominal pain, severe lower back pain and difficulties in urination are observed. Sometimes, these cysts rupture resulting in minor or severe symptoms. The following are the ruptured kidney cyst symptoms:

• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Back and abdominal pain
• Pain in waist and hips
• Sepsis
• Hemorrhage

Ruptured kidney cysts, in severe cases, can lead to obstructed blood flow in certain parts of the kidney; resulting in damage. Therefore, it is essential to treat kidney cysts immediately. Antibiotics are used for treating kidney cyst. Simple kidney cyst is not considered as an emergency condition and sometimes, no treatment may be required. On the other hand, complex kidney stones can be treated with the help of long-term antibiotics courses or surgery. In extreme cases, if multiple cysts occur that are beyond treatment,removal of kidney may be recommended. One should note that it is possible to live a normal life with a single kidney.

Kidney cysts can be treated effectively with the help of different treatment methods. It is just essential to consult the doctor immediately if you suffer from any of the aforementioned symptoms. As a concluding note, remember that this write-up is meant only for informational purposes. It is not to be substituted for medical consultation. Take care!