Can Smoke Influence the Cysts in PKD

Can smoke influence the cysts in PKD? Besides treatment, PKD patients are also suggested to take care of themselves in daily life so as to assure the effect of treatment and prevent the cysts from growing bigger. Many people like smoking, which they think can make themselves relax for the time being, and so do patients with PKD. However, they are suggested not to smoke. What does the harm smoking do?
There are different forms of tobacco, but all of them are harmful to PKD patients. The nicotine contained in tobacco can cause constriction of blood vessels, thus reducing blood flow in the kidney. But abundant kidney blood supply is needed for the kidneys to perform its normal function. When there is decreased renal blood flow, the progression of kidney damage can be accelerated.
In addition, constricted blood flow triggers the release of renin, which is a hormone that can raise blood pressure. As we know, high blood pressure is common in Polycystic Kidney Disease and it is a factor that can aggravate the disease. Therefore, if you smoke, you will give nicotine more chance to raise your blood pressure. Moreover, the elevated blood pressure is not easy to control, resulting in many complications of PKD. Therefore, there is an unfavorable relationship between smoke and PKD.
Besides stopping smoking, patients with PKD should also pay attention to the following aspects:
Firstly, PKD patients should avoid strenuous exercise so as to prevent the cysts from being pressed. In addition, they should also wear loose waist band. In addition, avoid all kinds of medicines or drugs which do harm to the kidney.
Secondly, drinks, especially alcohol should be forbidden, which can stimulate the kidney and stimulate the activity of protein and accelerate the growth of the kidney. Coffee and chocolate should also be forbidden for both of them can also stimulate the growth of the kidney.
Last but not least, avoid getting a cold. PKD patients should have more water every day, keep warm, do not take exercise too long outside so as to avoid getting a cold. Because after PKD patients get a cold, infection will take place. Bacteria or virus will enter PKD patients’ body and accelerate the condition. Even serum creatinine may increase sharply, which causes huge damage to kidney.