Renal Artery Stenosis: Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to renal artery stenosis, narrowing of the arteries supplying the kidneys, covering diagnosis and treatment options.
Treatment usually begins with
Nephrology Consultation
Renal Artery Imaging
Blood Pressure Management
Interventional Evaluation (if needed)
Treatment typically starts with blood pressure medication, with interventional procedures considered for more significant narrowing.
You may need this evaluated if...
An evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control with medication
- Sudden worsening of previously well-controlled blood pressure
- Kidney function decline after starting certain blood pressure medications
- A whooshing sound heard over the abdomen during examination
Renal artery stenosis is a treatable cause of difficult-to-control blood pressure, with several effective treatment options available.
What is Renal Artery Stenosis?
Renal artery stenosis is narrowing of one or both arteries supplying blood to the kidneys, which can cause difficult-to-control high blood pressure and, over time, affect kidney function.
A Treatable Cause of Resistant Hypertension
This condition is an important, treatable cause of blood pressure that doesn't respond well to standard medication.
Two Main Causes
Atherosclerosis and fibromuscular dysplasia are the most common underlying causes.
Can Affect Kidney Function
Reduced blood flow to the kidney can gradually impair its function if untreated.
Multiple Treatment Options
Medication alone, or combined with a procedure to open the narrowed artery, can effectively manage this condition.
Common Symptoms
- Difficult-to-control high blood pressure
- Sudden worsening of blood pressure control
- Declining kidney function
- Fluid retention or swelling
- Often no symptoms until blood pressure is affected
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, genetic and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Renal Artery Imaging
Ultrasound, CT or MR angiography visualises the narrowing in the renal artery.
Blood Pressure Pattern Review
Assesses how blood pressure has responded to previous treatment.
Kidney Function Testing
Checks whether reduced blood flow has affected kidney function.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Management
- Blood pressure medication tailored to this condition
- Management of underlying atherosclerosis risk factors
- Regular monitoring of kidney function and blood pressure
Advanced Care
Angioplasty and stenting can be considered for more significant narrowing, particularly when blood pressure remains uncontrolled or kidney function is declining.
Treatment decisions are based on kidney function tests, the underlying cause and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly helps protect long-term kidney function.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing concern.
- Blood pressure that is difficult to control despite medication
- Sudden worsening of previously stable blood pressure
Seek Urgent Care
Reach out for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Very high blood pressure with severe headache or vision changes
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right nephrologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right nephrologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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