Renal Artery Stenosis
Overview
Causes
The kidneys control blood pressure. If blood cannot get to the kidneys, then some hormones get out of balance. This makes blood pressure higher.
The two most common causes are:
- Atherosclerosis —Plaque builds up in the arteries and blocks blood flow
- Fibromuscular dysplasia—Muscle and tissue thicken on the artery wall and harden into rings that block blood flow
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Most people do not have symptoms. Those who do may have:
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Problems breathing
- Chest pain
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will include a blood pressure check.
Blood and urine tests will be done to look for certain proteins and other things that point to this health problem.
Images may be taken. This can be done with:
- Renal ultrasound
- CT angiography
- MR angiography
- Angiography
Treatments
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to lower blood pressure. Untreated high blood pressure can lead to stroke , heart attack , and kidney failure . Options are:
Lowering blood pressure will ease stress on the kidneys. Options are:
- Lifestyle changes, such as not smoking, exercising, and eating a healthful diet
- Medicines to lower blood pressure
- Surgery, such as:
- Percutaneous angioplasty—using a balloon or stent to open the artery and improve blood flow
- Bypass—rebuilding a blood vessel by going around the blockage
- Nephrectomy—Removal of one or both kidneys
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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