Renal hypertension, also known as renovascular hypertension, is a potentially serious medical condition in which the kidneys’ blood vessels become narrowed or blocked. This blockage can cause high blood pressure (hypertension) and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments for renal hypertension.
Causes of Renal Hypertension:
- Atherosclerosis: A build-up of fatty plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys can cause them to narrow and block the flow of blood.
- Injury or trauma to the kidneys: Accidents or surgeries that cause damage to the kidneys can lead to renal hypertension.
- Polycystic kidney disease: This genetic disorder causes the formation of numerous cysts in the kidneys that can block the flow of blood.
- Renal artery aneurysm: An aneurysm is a bulging of an artery wall that can block the flow of blood.
- Renal artery stenosis: This is a narrowing of the renal artery that can cause high blood pressure.
Symptoms of Renal Hypertension:
– Headache
– Dizziness
– Shortness of breath
– Fatigue
– Swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles
– Chest pain
– Visual disturbances
Treatments for Renal Hypertension:
– Medications: There are several medications available to treat hypertension, including diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs).
– Angioplasty and stenting: This procedure involves the insertion of a small tube through the artery to open a blocked artery and insert a stent to keep it open.
– Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the blockage or repair the artery.
– Kidney transplant: In severe cases, a kidney transplant may be necessary to restore kidney function.
It is important to note that renal hypertension can cause serious complications if left untreated. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to speak with your doctor. Your doctor can help diagnose the cause of the hypertension and develop a plan to treat it.
If you are diagnosed with renal hypertension, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and take all medications as prescribed. Regular check-ups will help to monitor your progress and ensure that your treatment plan is working. With proper treatment, it is possible to control your blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing serious complications.
If you have any questions about renal hypertension, it is important to speak with your doctor. They can provide you with more information and answer any questions you may have.
Understanding renal hypertension is key to managing the condition and reducing the risk of serious complications. By knowing the causes, symptoms, and treatments of renal hypertension, you can work with your doctor to create a plan to manage your condition and reduce your risk of developing serious complications.
