Renal artery stenosis: symptoms, causes, drugs, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is renal artery stenosis?

Renal artery stenosis is narrowing of one or more of the arteries that carry blood to the kidneys (renal artery). The kidneys need adequate blood flow to help filter waste products and remove excess fluid. The narrowing of the arteries prevents some of the oxygen-rich blood from reaching the kidneys. The reduced blood flow may increase blood pressure throughout the body (systemic blood pressure) and damage kidney tissue.

When both arteries become blocked, it can result in serious problems, including kidney failure.

How common is renal artery stenosis?

Renal artery stenosis commonly occurs in women and the elderly. You can reduce your chances of getting this disease by reducing risk factors. Discussion with doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of renal artery stenosis?

People usually don't have any symptoms. They don't know until they start developing high blood pressure or kidney failure. The condition may be discovered by chance in the test for a reason.

As renal artery stenosis progresses, other signs and symptoms include:

• Sudden high blood pressure
• High blood pressure before age 30 or after age 55
• Increased levels of protein in the urine or other signs of kidney dysfunction
• Worsening of kidney function during high blood pressure treatment
• Excess fluid and swelling of body tissues
• Untreated heart failure

There may be other symptoms that are not listed. If you have questions about signs of illness, consult a doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have any of the above signs or symptoms or have any questions, consult your doctor. In addition, see a doctor if:

• Experiencing symptoms or abnormalities when urinating in the long term;
• Blood pressure remains high
• Swell

Every body acts differently from one another. Discuss with your doctor to find the best solution for your condition.

Cause

What causes renal artery stenosis?

In the elderly, the main cause is atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). In atherosclerosis, fat, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate in the artery walls.

In young adults, a condition called fibromuscular dysplasia is the most common cause. In this disease, tissue grows inside the walls of the renal artery and narrows or blocks it.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for renal artery stenosis?

Certain factors may increase the risk of developing renal artery stenosis:

• Age: older people are more at risk
• High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes
• Obesity or rarely exercise
• Smoking and other tobacco use
• Family history of heart disease

Having no risk doesn't mean you can't get sick. The above risk factors are for reference only. Discuss with a specialist for more details.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for renal artery stenosis?

Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the stenosis and on personal preference. Mild or moderate symptoms can sometimes be treated with drugs to control high blood pressure. More severe conditions may require surgical widening or opening of the arteries.

In addition, your doctor may use a treatment called angioplasty. This treatment is more often used when the cause is fibromuscular dysplasia but not atherosclerosis. The stages of angioplasty are:

• The doctor uses a plastic balloon to open the narrowed artery.
• Then, the doctor inserts a metal tube or mesh called a stent to keep the artery open

The procedure may be done many times because the narrowing can recur. Medication for high blood pressure may still need to be taken.

What are the usual tests for renal artery stenosis?

The doctor makes a diagnosis based on a medical history and physical examination. Blood and urine tests as well as renal artery MRA may also be important. An MRA is a special X-ray of the blood vessels that transport blood to the kidneys.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat renal artery stenosis?

The following lifestyle and home remedies may help treat renal artery stenosis:

• Take medication regularly according to doctor's instructions.
• Change your lifestyle. Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
• Limit cholesterol, fat, and salt in food.
• Drink lots of water.
• Don't drink alcohol.
• Quit smoking.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.