You might hear these two terms, and they can be a bit confusing.

• Inherited diseases are passed down through the genes from a parent.
• Congenital diseases are simply conditions that are present at birth. They might be inherited, or they could happen for other reasons during a baby's development in the womb.

This guide focuses on the inherited types that can affect families.

There are many different types of genetic kidney diseases, but some are more common than others.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

This is one of the most well-known inherited kidney diseases. In PKD, many fluid-filled sacs called "cysts" begin to grow in the kidneys. Over many years, these cysts can multiply and grow larger, causing the kidneys to become enlarged and eventually lose their ability to function properly.

Other Genetic Conditions

There are many other, rarer types of inherited kidney diseases. Some affect the kidney's delicate filtering units, some cause long-term inflammation, and some can even be linked to hearing or vision problems. The specific type of disease will determine the symptoms and how it progresses over time.

The symptoms of inherited kidney disease can vary, but some common signs to watch for include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension), especially at a younger age.
• Protein in the urine (your doctor will find this on a test, but it might make your urine look foamy).
• Blood in the urine (which can make it look pink, red, or brownish).
• Swelling (soojan), especially in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes.
• Feeling tired and weak all the time.
• Pain in the side or back, which is common with PKD as the cysts grow.
• Getting frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or kidney stones.

Figuring out if a kidney problem is genetic involves a few key steps:

• Look at Your Family's Health History: This is the biggest clue. Have other close relatives (parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings) also had kidney problems, high blood pressure, or needed dialysis? Talking openly with your family about their health can provide vital information.
• Get Regular Medical Check-ups: If you know there is a history of kidney disease in your family, it's very important to see a doctor for regular check-ups. Simple blood and urine tests can monitor your kidney health long before you ever feel any symptoms.
• Consider Genetic Testing: In some cases, your doctor might suggest a special blood test called genetic testing. This test can look for the specific faulty gene that is known to cause certain kidney diseases. A genetic counsellor can help you understand the results and what they mean for you and other family members.

While most inherited kidney diseases cannot be cured, they can be managed effectively to slow down their progression and protect your health.

• Working with a Specialist: You will need to be under the care of a kidney specialist, known as a nephrologist.
• Key Management Steps: The main goals of treatment are to control symptoms and slow down kidney damage. This usually involves:
  • Strictly controlling your blood pressure with medication.
  • Following a kidney-friendly diet (often low in salt).
  • Drinking an appropriate amount of water.
  • Avoiding medications that can be harmful to the kidneys (like certain painkillers).
• Planning for the Future: For many people with these conditions, kidney function will unfortunately decline over time. Your doctor will help you understand the progression and plan for future treatments, which might eventually include dialysis or a kidney transplant.

If kidney disease runs in your family, being proactive is your greatest strength. Understanding your family's health history and getting regular check-ups can help you catch any problems at the earliest possible stage. Working closely with a kidney specialist will help you manage the condition effectively, slow its progression, and protect your health for as long as possible. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to speak with a healthcare professional to get the guidance and care you need.