Problem 10: Renal Artery Stenosis
Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of one or both of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys. This narrowing can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, leading to impaired kidney function and high blood pressure. Over time, untreated renal artery stenosis can lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
The primary cause of renal artery stenosis is atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up on the inner walls of the arteries. Other causes may include fibromuscular dysplasia, a condition that affects the structure of the arterial walls, and certain genetic disorders.
Symptoms of renal artery stenosis may include:
• High blood pressure that is difficult to control with medications
• A sudden onset of high blood pressure in a person with no previous history of hypertension
• Decreased kidney function without a known cause
• A bruit, or abnormal sound, heard through a stethoscope over the renal artery
Treatment for renal artery stenosis typically involves managing high blood pressure and, in some cases, restoring blood flow to the kidneys. This may involve medications to control blood pressure, lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, and, in some cases, procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery to widen the narrowed artery. (10)
