End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is when your kidneys permanently stop working and require long-term dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life. While ESRD is rare in TSC, chronic kidney disease is not. Chronic kidney disease takes several decades to decline to the point of ESRD. Those with TSC and polycystic kidney disease (PKD) are at a much higher risk of kidney failure over their lifespan. Proper kidney care is essential to preserve renal function. Great ways to proactively protect your kidneys include careful blood pressure management, prevention of protein in the urine (proteinuria) and a healthy diet. Over time, interventions like reoccurring embolization, nephrectomies, renal hemorrhages and acute illnesses can take a toll on kidney function. If you find yourself in a situation and your healthcare provider starts to discuss dialysis or renal transplant in your future, the Kidney Foundation and PKD Foundation have excellent resources to help you make more informed decisions.
