Renal Artery Disease

Renal artery disease can harm kidney function and raise cardiovascular risk. Early expert care and personalized treatment can help protect your kidneys and keep you healthy for a better quality of life.

What is Renal Artery Disease?

Renal artery disease happens when the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys get narrowed or blocked, usually because of atherosclerosis. This can lower kidney function and lead to high blood pressure and heart issues.

Causes of Renal Artery Disease

Common causes include:

• Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup)
• Fibromuscular dysplasia (non-atherosclerotic artery narrowing)
• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Family history of vascular disease

Symptoms

Symptoms may develop gradually and can include:

• High blood pressure is difficult to control with medication
• Reduced kidney function
• Swelling in the legs or feet
• Fatigue
• Fluid retention
• Sudden onset of kidney failure (in severe cases)
  

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves:

• Medical history and physical exam
• Blood tests assessing kidney function
• Ultrasound Doppler of renal arteries
• CT angiography or MR angiography
• Renal artery catheter angiography (in some cases)
  

Treatment Options

Treatment goals include restoring blood flow, preserving kidney function, and controlling blood pressure:

• Medications: blood pressure control and cholesterol management
• Lifestyle changes: quitting smoking, healthy diet, exercise
• Angioplasty and stenting: opening narrowed arteries
• Surgery: bypass procedures in severe cases

Lifestyle Management

To protect your kidneys and heart:

• Maintain a heart-healthy diet low in sodium and saturated fat
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid tobacco use
• Manage blood pressure and diabetes
• Consistently take all prescribed medications
• Regularly monitor kidney function with your doctor
  

Conclusion

Renal artery disease can lead to severe problems. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help maintain kidney function and lower cardiovascular risk. Making lifestyle changes and managing medical care are essential.  

At IVY Cardiovascular & Vein Center in Wellington, FL, Dr. Rishi Panchal offers expert diagnosis and treatment for renal artery disease with personalized care plans.  

Protect your kidneys and heart. Schedule an evaluation today at 561-210-9495 or request an appointment online.