Overview
Kidney cysts are round pouches of fluid that form on or in the kidneys. They can occur with disorders that may impair kidney function, but most often, they are a type called simple kidney cysts. Simple kidney cysts are not cancer and rarely cause problems. The cause of simple kidney cysts is not clear, but they can be found during an imaging test for another condition. Simple kidney cysts typically don't cause symptoms, but if they grow large enough, they may cause dull pain in the back or side. In rare cases, a burst cyst can cause severe pain and sometimes blood in the urine.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of kidney cysts can vary depending on the type and size of the cysts. Simple kidney cysts typically don't cause symptoms, but if they grow large enough, they may cause dull pain in the back or side, fever, or upper stomach pain. However, it's important to note that these symptoms are not specific to kidney cysts and can be caused by other conditions as well. If you have symptoms of a kidney cyst, you should make an appointment with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If simple kidney cysts are suspected, you should make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you have symptoms such as dull pain in the back or side, fever, or upper stomach pain. If kidney cysts are causing complications, including infection, bursting, blocking urine flow, or causing severe pain, it's important to seek medical attention as well.
Diagnosis
Imaging tests, such as MRI, CT, and ultrasound, are often used to diagnose simple kidney cysts. These tests can help determine whether a kidney mass is a cyst or a tumor. In some cases, kidney function tests may also be performed, testing a sample of your blood to see whether the cyst affects kidney function. If the cyst is simple and causes no symptoms or affects kidney function, no treatment may be needed, and your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring it with imaging tests over time.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of kidney cysts may include:
- Infected cyst: A kidney cyst may become infected, causing fever and pain.
- Burst cyst: A kidney cyst that bursts causes severe pain in the back or side. Sometimes a burst cyst may cause blood in the urine.
Home Remedies
It is important to note that simple kidney cysts usually do not cause symptoms and do not require treatment. However, if you experience any symptoms or are concerned about kidney cysts, you should consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate evaluation and guidance.
Treatment
Treatment usually isn't needed unless simple cysts cause symptoms. If a simple kidney cyst causes symptoms such as dull pain in the back or side, fever, or a burst cyst, treatments may be considered. It's important to note that simple kidney cysts are typically not cancerous and rarely cause problems. If you have concerns about your kidney cysts or experience symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for kidney cysts, you can:
- Gather information: Research and learn about kidney cysts, their types, and possible treatments.
- List your symptoms: Note any symptoms you're experiencing, even if they seem unrelated to kidney cysts.
- Prepare a list of medications: Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you take, as some may affect your kidney function.
- Bring a family member or friend: Have someone accompany you to the appointment to help remember information discussed during the visit.
- Write down questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider, such as the size and nature of the cyst, the likelihood of growth, potential risks, and recommended treatment options. Remember to discuss any concerns you have about your health and ask any questions you may have during the appointment.