Hypertension
Renal Artery Stenosis
Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys
What is it?
Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of one or both renal arteries that carry blood to the kidneys. It is a major cause of secondary hypertension and can lead to progressive kidney disease if untreated.
Symptoms
- Difficult-to-control high blood pressure
- Worsening kidney function
- Fluid retention and swelling
- Decreased urine output
Causes & Risk Factors
- Atherosclerosis (most common)
- Fibromuscular dysplasia (especially in young women)
- Inflammation of arteries
Diagnosis
Diagnosed via Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, MR angiography, or renal arteriography.
Treatment Options
Antihypertensive medications
Renal artery angioplasty and stenting
Surgical bypass (rare)
When to Seek Medical Advice
See your doctor if you have persistently high blood pressure that does not respond to medications, or if kidney function tests are declining.