Description
Renovascular hypertension occurs when the arteries that carry blood to the kidneys become
narrow.

Risk factors (see Heart Attack)
The cause of renovascular hypertension, a form of secondary hypertension, which is usually caused by a blockage in the artery supplying blood to the kidneys. The risk factors are the same as a heart attack.

Symptoms
(see Hypertension)

Diagnostic Tools
Many tests are used to diagnose renovascular hypertension. Usually, more than one test is done before a definitive diagnosis can be made. These tests may include: 

• physical examination and patient history

• renal scan  

• doppler ultrasound

• arteriogram 

• conventional or magnetic resonance renal angiography

• MRA 

Treatment Options
Changes in lifestyle such as weight loss, increased exercise, and a low-fat diet with limited sodium intake may reduce hypertension. If these lifestyle changes do not work, medications for hypertension may include: 

• ACE inhibitors  

• beta-blockers 

• calcium channel blockers

• diuretics

When medications and lifestyle changes do not work, surgical reconstruction or bypass of a narrowed artery may be performed.  Procedures, such as balloon angioplasty or stenting of the narrowed artery may be used instead of surgery.

If medical treatment options do not work, then physicians may consider the following: 

• surgical bypass of the renal arteries (revascularization)

• percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty or stent placement

Prevention
Steps to prevent or to reduce the risk of renovascular hypertension include:

• adjusting dietary to control hypertension, such as modifying sodium intake

• eating a low fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in animal fat

• exercise as recommended maintaining a proper diet

• increasing exercising (as recommended)

• maintaining a healthy weight 

• modifying salt intake

• reducing alcohol consumption

• quitting smoking