Description
Renal artery stenosis is the narrowing of one or more of the arteries that supply your kidneys with blood.
Symptoms
Although renal artery stenosis may cause no signs or symptoms in the early stages, the late stages can cause symptoms such as
- High blood pressure resistant to typical treatments
- Elevated protein levels in your urine
- Abnormally high levels of fluid or swelling in your body’s tissues
Diagnosis
The following tests will help your doctor diagnose renal artery stenosis:
- Physical exam
- Medical history
- Blood and urine tests to verify your kidney function
- Blood and urine tests to verify the levels of hormones that regulate your blood pressure
Additional tests may include:
- Doppler ultrasound
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance angiography
- Renal arteriography
Treatment
Treatment will possibly involve a combination of lifestyle adjustments, medication, and medical procedures.
Lifestyle adjustments
- Weight loss (if overweight)
- Healthier diet
- Limiting salt
- Increase physical activity and exercise
- Reduce stress
- Lower alcohol and caffeine consumption
- Quitting smoking
Medication
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Diuretics
- Beta blockers and alpha-beta blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
Procedures
- Renal angioplasty and stenting
- Renal artery bypass surgery