Call Us: 423.602.2750
PAY ONLINE
423.602.2750

Renal Artery Stenosis (RAS) Overview

Renal Artery Stenosis (RAS) Overview

Renal Artery Stenosis (RAS) is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys narrows.  These arteries are critical for carrying the oxygen-rich blood to your kidneys, allowing for the efficient discard of waste and excess fluid.  Renal disease can worsen over time leading to hypertension (high blood pressure) and kidney damage, and in worst case scenario, ultimately kidney failure.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Renal Artery Stenosis Causes

Primarily the cause for RAS is due to the hardening of the arteries, where the arteries become clogged with a plaque made up of fat and cholesterol that cannot exit the body. In rare cases, a condition known as fibromuscular dysplasia can be the cause. In this case, the cells in the walls of the arteries grow abnormally.  This condition is more prevalent in women and younger people with hypertension and is potentially curable if treated early.

You Have a Choice When It Comes to Vascular Care.
Get an Appointment at VIC In 1 to 3 days – Without a Referral!

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT: 423.602.2750

You Have a Choice When It Comes to Vascular Care.
Get an Appointment at VIC In 1 to 3 days – Without a Referral!

423.602.2750

Renal Artery Stenosis Risk Factors & Symptoms

Risk Factors Associated with RAS

  • Development of hypertension before the age of 30
  • Diet that is high in fat, sodium, and sugar
  • Diabetes or family history
  • Female
  • Heart disease or other vascular disorders
  • High Cholesterol
  • Obesity
  • Lack of exercise
  • Smoking
doctor holding model of a kidney to illustrate renal artery stenosis

Symptoms to Look for In Detecting RAS

  • Blood pressure that is not controlled with medication
  • Decrease in kidney function
  • Retention of fluid
  • Edema (swelling) in the ankles and feet
  • Abnormal kidney function
  • Increased level of protein in your urine

Renal Artery Stenosis Diagnosis

Your medical provider will ask you questions pertaining to your history and perform a physical exam.  The answers you provide will allow them to confirm or rule out disease.

  • Blood and urine test to evaluate kidney function
  • An ultrasound of the kidney
  • Doppler ultrasound of the arteries to determine flow
  • An arteriogram with contrast which provides detailed images of the kidney and vessels
  • CT angiogram
OUR LOCATIONS

Renal Artery Stenosis Treatment

Medical management of hypertension or kidney dysfunction is the first recommended treatment protocol in patients with RAS. In addition to anti-hypertensive medications, medical providers may also suggest that the patient take a cholesterol medication and aspirin daily. In some cases, an intervention is needed.  The typical procedure would be an angioplasty and stent of the stenosis.  This can be done in an outpatient facility, with a minimally invasive technique, using fluoroscopy to place the stent and open the artery to improve kidney function. Finally, a surgical bypass can be performed, but is not common.  The surgery will bypass the narrowed or blocked artery to restore proper flow.

Renal Artery Stenosis Prevention

Sometimes the best means of prevention are the most obvious.  Choosing to live a heart-healthy lifestyle, including exercise, and elimination of risk factors can be your best defense against RAS.
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT
heart healthy foods and exercise equipment to prevent renal artery stenosis

Renal Artery Stenosis Progression

The progression of RAS can lead to severe kidney damage with symptoms including change in urine output, edema, fatigue, muscle cramps, nausea, and sudden weight loss. If you are experiencing these changes, see your doctor and be evaluated.

FAQs

The main cause of renal artery stenosis is atherosclerosis – the buildup of plaque and cholesterol in the blood vessels, which can lead to kidney disease and issues with blood flow to the kidneys.

Risk factors for renal artery stenosis include age, being female, high blood pressure, the presence of vascular disease, existing chronic kidney issues (contributing to kidney disease and potentially renal failure), diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol.

The best way to reduce your risk of developing renal artery stenosis is to adopt heart-healthy lifestyle choices and manage controllable risk factors. Communicate with your doctor and be mindful of your body’s signals to potentially prevent progression towards renal failure and to explore treatment for renal artery stenosis if needed.

New Hixson Location
NOW OPEN!

Call now to book an appointment.

Conveniently located near Northgate Mall.

CALL NOW

November

November is Diabetes Awareness Month!

11/15 World Diabetes Awareness Day
Check out our page to learn more and stay informed!
LEARN MORE