What are the symptoms and diagnosis of Renovascular Disease?

Renovascular disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels leading to the kidneys. Its primary cause is the narrowing or blockage of the renal arteries, which leads to reduced blood flow to the kidneys. This reduction in blood flow can have significant implications for kidney function and overall health. In this blog post, we will explore the symptoms and diagnosis of renovascular disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Renovascular Disease

  1. Hypertension: Renovascular disease commonly presents with high blood pressure. The narrowing or blockage of the renal arteries can cause an increase in blood pressure because the kidneys play a crucial role in regulating it.

  2. Impaired Kidney Function: Reduced blood flow to the kidneys can result in kidney dysfunction. Symptoms of impaired kidney function include decreased urine output, fluid retention, swelling in the legs or ankles, and elevated levels of waste products in the blood.

  3. Abdominal Pain: Some individuals with renovascular disease may experience abdominal pain, particularly in the area near the kidneys. This pain can be constant or intermittent and may worsen after eating.

  4. Flank Pain: Renovascular disease can cause flank pain, which is discomfort or pain on the side of the body between the ribs and the hip. This pain can vary from mild to severe and may occur on one or both sides.

  5. Additional Symptoms: In certain cases, renovascular disease may present with other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can be nonspecific and may overlap with those of other conditions, making diagnosis challenging.

Diagnosis of Renovascular Disease

  1. Medical History and Physical Examination: The initial step in diagnosing renovascular disease involves reviewing the patient's medical history and conducting a physical examination. This helps the healthcare provider understand the symptoms and assess the individual's overall health.

  2. Blood Pressure Monitoring: Since hypertension is a common symptom of renovascular disease, monitoring blood pressure is crucial. Consistently elevated blood pressure readings may indicate renal artery stenosis (narrowing).

  3. Imaging Tests: Various imaging tests can be utilized to visualize the renal arteries and detect any narrowing or blockages. These tests include ultrasound, computed tomography angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and renal arteriography. These imaging techniques provide detailed information about blood flow to the kidneys and identify any abnormalities.

  4. Renal Function Tests: Blood and urine tests can help evaluate kidney function and identify any signs of impaired renal function. These tests measure markers such as creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

  5. Nuclear Medicine Renal Scans: These scans involve injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the bloodstream. The material is then tracked as it flows through the kidneys, allowing the healthcare provider to assess kidney function and blood flow.

It is important to note that the diagnosis of renovascular disease requires the expertise of a healthcare professional. The symptoms can resemble those of other conditions, and a thorough evaluation is necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis.

A word from the doctor — 

Renovascular disease can present with symptoms such as high blood pressure, impaired kidney function, abdominal and flank pain, and other nonspecific signs. Diagnosis involves reviewing the medical history, conducting a physical examination, monitoring blood pressure, performing imaging tests, conducting renal function tests, and utilizing nuclear medicine renal scans. Early detection and appropriate management of renovascular disease are crucial to prevent further kidney damage and minimize the risk of complications. If you experience any concerning symptoms, it is advisable to promptly seek medical attention.


Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanul Corrielus right away if you have questions about your heart health!

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