The kidneys play a vital role in health, filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance. Two renal arteries (one for each kidney) supply crucial blood and nutrients to the kidneys. Like other arteries in the body, these arteries can harden, develop blood clots, or bulge. Renal artery disease affects blood flow to and from the kidneys. It’s a serious condition that requires expert management.
At Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates, our vascular intervention specialist Nader Chadda, MD, FACC, FSCAI, has extensive experience managing renal artery disease and uses advanced techniques to widen narrowed blood vessels and restore adequate blood flow.
Renal artery disease primarily results from atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty plaque deposits harden and build up on artery walls, causing them to stiffen and narrow. Over time the plaque can restrict blood flow.
High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle are all factors that influence atherosclerosis. The narrowing of the renal arteries can lead to decreased blood flow to the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and regulate blood pressure effectively.
In addition to atherosclerosis, fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is another, though lesser known, cause of renal artery disease. This condition affects the structure of the renal arteries, often leading to abnormal growth within the arterial walls. FMD can cause the arteries to narrow, which can compromise kidney function.
Renal artery disease is often silent, at least in the initial stages. If you have any risk factors, it’s crucial to have your kidney function checked and monitored. Otherwise renal artery disease can go unnoticed until it progresses.
However, there are key signs and symptoms to be aware of. Patients may experience high blood pressure that is difficult to control with medication. This is because the kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood pressure, and any impairment in their function can lead to hypertension.
Other symptoms may include unexplained kidney dysfunction, such as changes in urine output or composition, swelling in the legs or feet, and an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. Some patients might also experience episodes of sudden, severe high blood pressure, which can lead to headaches, visual disturbances, and confusion. It’s important to pay attention to these warning signs, as early detection can prevent further complications and guide appropriate treatment.
Once renal artery disease is diagnosed, a range of treatment options are available to manage the condition effectively. Lifestyle changes are often the first line of defense, including adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and quitting smoking. Medication may be necessary to control blood pressure and cholesterol levels. ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), and statins are commonly prescribed to help manage these conditions.
For more advanced cases in which there is severe narrowing, Dr. Chadda specializes in minimally invasive vascular intervention to restore blood flow. Depending on your situation, Dr. Chadda may recommend renal angioplasty and stenting.
During renal angioplasty, Dr. Chadda uses X-ray guidance to insert a catheter with a small balloon on its tip into the narrowed renal artery and inflates it to widen the artery, improving blood flow to the kidneys.
Following angioplasty, a stent — a small, metal, mesh tube — is typically placed in the artery to keep it open and prevent it from narrowing again. This combination of angioplasty and stenting can help restore adequate blood flow, reduce blood pressure, and improve kidney function, particularly in patients with renovascular hypertension or those at risk of kidney damage due to reduced blood supply.
Dr. Chadda encourages regular checkups and screenings, especially for those with risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing serious complications and maintaining optimal kidney function.
Our team provides comprehensive care and support at our offices in Hudson and Brooksville, Florida. We are dedicated to fostering a trusting relationship with you. Contact us today and start the conversation about renal artery disease.
