The kidney disease behind Premanand Maharaj’s health struggles: Polycystic kidney disease explained

Premanand Maharaj, the revered Vrindavan-based spiritual leader, has long inspired followers with his guidance and teachings. Recently, he has been facing serious kidney-related health challenges. In a video of YouTuber Elvish Yadav, Premanand Maharaj openly expressed his concern, saying, “Ab swasth kaise thik hoga, dono kidney fail hai” (How will my health get better now? Both my kidneys have failed). Viewers noted visible signs of his illness, including facial swelling and redness, reflecting the impact of his condition. He reportedly undergoes long, intensive dialysis sessions daily and has declined offers for kidney donations from devotees. The candid video provides direct insight into his health struggles, highlighting both the severity of his kidney condition and the personal challenges he faces while managing treatment.

Polycystic kidney disease: The condition affecting Premanand Maharaj

Premanand Maharaj is reportedly affected by polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic disorder in which fluid-filled cysts grow in the kidneys. These cysts gradually enlarge and multiply, reducing kidney function and potentially leading to kidney failure. PKD interferes with the kidneys’ ability to filter blood efficiently and is progressive over time. There are two main forms: Autosomal Dominant PKD (ADPKD), which usually develops in adulthood, and the rare Autosomal Recessive PKD (ARPKD), often detected at birth.





According to the National Kidney Foundation, Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder in which numerous fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, develop within the kidneys. These cysts can grow in size and number over time, gradually replacing healthy kidney tissue. As the cysts expand, they interfere with the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, which is their primary function. This progressive damage can ultimately lead to kidney failure if left unmanaged. In the United States, around 600,000 people are affected by PKD, making it the fourth most common cause of kidney failure. The condition affects both men and women equally and accounts for roughly five percent of all kidney failure cases, highlighting its significance as a public health concern.

Signs and symptoms of polycystic kidney disease (PKD)

• High blood pressure: Often the earliest and most common sign; uncontrolled blood pressure can accelerate kidney damage.
• Back or side pain: Caused by the enlargement of cysts pressing on surrounding tissues.
• Abdominal swelling or enlargement: Occurs as cysts grow and the kidneys expand.
• Blood in the urine (hematuria): It can result from bleeding cysts.
• Frequent urinary tract or kidney infections: A sign that kidney function may be compromised.
• Palpitations or chest fluttering: Sometimes caused by changes in heart valves associated with PKD.
• Headaches: Often linked to high blood pressure, which is common in PKD patients.

These symptoms typically appear between ages 30 and 40 and may worsen as the cysts grow and disrupt normal kidney function.

Causes of polycystic kidney disease (PKD)

PKD is an inherited genetic disorder, passed down from parents to children. Genes, which carry hereditary information, play a key role in determining susceptibility to PKD. The disease can be transmitted through dominant or recessive inheritance. In dominant inheritance, only one abnormal gene from a parent can cause the disease, giving each child a 50 percent chance of developing it. Recessive inheritance requires both parents to pass an abnormal gene, giving each child a 25 percent likelihood of being affected. Environmental factors and lifestyle choices may influence disease progression, but the genetic component remains the primary determinant of risk in affected families.

Types of polycystic kidney disease (PKD)

• Autosomal Dominant PKD (ADPKD): ADPKD is the most common form, making up about 90% of cases. It is inherited through dominant genes, meaning only one parent needs to pass on the abnormal gene. Symptoms usually appear between ages 30 and 40, though they may start earlier. Common signs include high blood pressure, abdominal swelling, back or side pain, and blood in the urine. Over time, growing cysts can significantly damage the kidneys and lead to kidney failure.
• Autosomal Recessive PKD (ARPKD): ARPKD is very rare and inherited recessively, requiring abnormal genes from both parents. Symptoms often appear in infancy or may be detected before birth. This form progresses rapidly and can be fatal within the first months of life. Infants may have enlarged kidneys, reduced urine output, and associated liver complications, requiring early medical care and monitoring.
• Acquired Cystic Kidney Disease (ACKD): ACKD develops in kidneys with long-term damage, commonly in patients on dialysis. It is not inherited but occurs as a complication of chronic kidney disease. Patients often notice blood in the urine due to cyst bleeding. ACKD can increase the risk of infections and other kidney-related complications, making regular monitoring essential for those affected.

PKD can have far-reaching effects beyond the kidneys. It may lead to cysts in the liver, pancreas, spleen, ovaries, or large bowel. While these cysts often remain asymptomatic, they can occasionally cause issues. The disease can also impact the brain, leading to aneurysms, or affect heart valves, resulting in murmurs. Around half of PKD patients will experience kidney failure by age 60, and about 60 percent by age 70, necessitating dialysis or transplantation. Women with PKD, especially those with high blood pressure, face higher risks during pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia, which can threaten both mother and child. Genetic counselling is recommended for patients concerned about passing PKD to their children. PKD may also cause chronic pain, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, fatigue, and emotional stress, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring, lifestyle management, and early intervention to preserve organ function and overall quality of life.


Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.

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