Fluttering or Pounding in the Chest
Fluttering or pounding in the chest is a common symptom experienced by approximately 25% of individuals with polycystic kidney disease. This sensation is attributed to the presence of a floppy valve in the heart. When one of the heart’s valves becomes dysfunctional, its flaps lose their ability to close tightly, allowing for a gap between the atrium and the ventricle. As a result, the patient may also experience chest pain. In some cases, fluttering in the chest can be the initial indication of polycystic kidney disease. However, these symptoms are typically temporary and tend to resolve on their own.
Skin Changes in Kidney Disease
One of the effects of kidney disease is visible changes in the skin. Patients may notice their skin becoming paler and losing its natural radiance. Additionally, the skin can become more prone to bruising, and the patient may experience easy bleeding. Another noticeable change is the abnormal shape of the nails. Along with these physical changes, individuals with kidney disease often experience itchy skin and a persistent urge to scratch. This itching is a direct result of the kidneys’ impaired function. Normally, the kidneys filter waste from the blood, but when they are not functioning properly, waste materials accumulate, leading to severe itching and discomfort.