Renal artery stenosis is the narrowing of one or both blood vessels to the kidneys.
The kidneys also make hormones to balance salt and fluid levels.
About 90% of cases of renal artery stenosis are from atherosclerosis.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
Risk Factors
Atherosclerosis is responsible for the vast majority of cases of renal artery stenosis.
Sometimes, FMD runs in families.
Signs and Symptoms
In most cases, renal artery stenosis does not cause symptoms.
Even when it causes complications like high blood pressure, there may be no other obvious signs.
They will focus on risk factors for renal artery stenosis, such as atherosclerosis risk factors and family history.
They also look for swelling in the feet and ankles.
Laboratory tests include blood tests such as ametabolic panelexamining kidney function and electrolyte levels.
While lab tests can find abnormal kidney function, they are unable to diagnose renal stenosis.
If the kidneys can’t perform this job, they need to undergo dialysis or have a kidney transplant.
In dialysis, a machine filters the blood to remove waste.
Kidney transplants are another treatment option for end-stage renal disease.
Having renal artery stenosis increases the risk of complications from atherosclerosis, like heart attack or stroke.
Medications can help manage high blood pressure and the risk of complications.
Summary
Renal artery stenosis is the narrowing of the blood vessels that bring blood to the kidneys.
It can cause high blood pressure and kidney failure.
Most often, renal artery stenosis is due to atherosclerosis, a buildup of cholesterol plaque in the arteries.
Renal artery stenosis is a serious but treatable condition.
Your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle management and medications to treat the condition and prevent complications.
In severe cases, minimally invasive stenting or surgery are options.
When renal artery stenosis causes severe kidney failure, dialysis or renal transplant can help replace the kidney function.
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