Your Trusted Renal Artery StenosisTreatment and Prevention Experts In South Dakota
What is Renal Artery Stenosis
Narrowing of the renal arteries is called renal artery stenosis. This condition prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the kidneys. When the kidneys are starved for oxygen, they are unable to filter blood, regulate blood chemicals, or remove excess bodily fluids.
Symptoms of Renal Artery Stenosis
In most patients, renal artery stenosis does not cause symptoms until the narrowing of the renal arteries is severe. This usually happens over months to years. The most common signs and symptoms include:
Unexplained, and difficult to control blood pressure
This may feel sharp, dull, pressure-like, squeezing, heaviness, tight or cramping. It can occur anywhere on the chest, but classically occurs on the left side. The discomfort is usually associated with physical or emotional stress and is relieved with rest or nitroglycerin. The pain may travel to the neck, jaw, shoulder, arms, back, or upper abdomen. Shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and excessive sweating may also occur.
High blood pressure at a young age
Having trouble catching your breath, especially when exerting yourself. For example, you may get short of breath when walking or climbing stairs. Waking up at night short of breath is also concerning.
Worsening kidney function
Worsening kidney function (diagnosed), or symptoms associated with worsening kidney function may be indicative of renal artery stenosis.
High protein levels in urine
If you’ve been told that you have higher levels of protein within your urine, you may be at risk of renal artery stenosis.
Swelling or edema
Swelling also known as edema, especially within the lower extremities may be a sign of renal artery stenosis.
murmur
A murmur (bruit) heard over the abdomen when a doctor listens with a stethoscope.
Risk Factors of Renal Artery Stenosis
Smoking
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Obesity
High Blood pressure
History of fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD)
Causes of Renal Artery Stenosis
The two most common causes of renal artery stenosis include:
Like other forms of cardiovascular disease, a buildup of plaque inside the renal arteries by a process called atherosclerosis causes renal artery stenosis. As the plaque grows in size, the narrowing of the artery worsens eventually causing kidney damage.
This condition, more common in white women, is usually diagnosed between the ages of 25 to 50. The exact cause is unknown, but FMD results in abnormal growth causing narrowing and bulging of the renal arteries. FMD can also affect arteries of the brain, neck, heart, and legs.
Diagnosis of Renal Artery Stenosis
The diagnosis of renal artery stenosis is made by a qualified cardiologist or vascular specialist. Questions about your medical history will be asked and a physical examination will be performed. Additional testing may include the following:
- Blood and urine testing
- Hormone levels
- Ultrasound imaging of the aorta and renal arteries
- CT scan
- Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)
- Renal angiography
Treatment of Renal Artery Stenosis
The treatment for renal artery stenosis depends on the severity of disease:
Mild or Moderate stenosis: Medications can prevent renal artery stenosis from becoming severe. The stenosis is monitored over time with imaging tests such as ultrasound and CT/MRA.
Severe stenosis: For most patients, a minimally invasive procedure performed through the wrist can solve the problem. Balloon angioplasty and stenting is performed to restore normal blood flow to the kidneys.
For patients with fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD), balloon angioplasty is performed to restore normal flow and blood pressure.
Experienced Care for Renal Artery Stenosis Symptoms in the Black Hills
If you have risk factors or have any symptoms of renal artery stenosis, please call Black Hills Heart and Vascular at (605) 503-8192 to schedule a consultation.
