Next Steps and
Helpful Links
Living with PKD
A diagnosis of PKD may mean changes and considerations for you and your family. You may experience a range of emotions when you receive a PKD diagnosis and as you adjust to living with the condition. Reaching out to a support network of family and friends can be helpful.
Lifestyle
Exercise is an important part of maintaining good, overall health. Regular exercise can decrease your blood pressure and stress as well as improve muscle strength, heart function and stamina. It can also enhance a sense of well-being.
Working with your Doctor
In addition to your general practitioner (also called an internist), you should also see a doctor who specializes in kidneys. A nephrologist (kidney specialist) will be able to advise you best on how to care for your polycystic kidneys and the other related symptoms.
Research
We support the development of clinical interventions for the treatment of polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Since our founding, we have invested almost $42 million in more than 550 research, clinical and scientific grants, fellowships and scientific meetings.