Question 1

What is Renal Artery Stenosis?

Accepted Answer

Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to one or both kidneys. It is caused by atherosclerosis buildup or fibromuscular dysplasia that restricts blood flow to the kidneys, triggering the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. The Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio is the most important test for detecting the hormonal changes that result from reduced kidney blood flow.

Question 2

What causes renal artery stenosis?

Accepted Answer

Renal artery stenosis is caused by atherosclerosis or fibromuscular dysplasia that narrows the arteries supplying blood to the kidneys. Atherosclerosis, which accounts for about 90% of cases, occurs when cholesterol and plaque build up on artery walls, typically affecting older adults with cardiovascular risk factors. Fibromuscular dysplasia is a less common cause that primarily affects younger women and involves abnormal cell growth in the artery walls. When these arteries narrow, blood flow to the kidneys decreases, triggering the kidneys to release excess renin hormone in an attempt to restore normal blood pressure and perfusion.

Question 3

What is the best test for renal artery stenosis?

Accepted Answer

The Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio is the most important blood test for renal artery stenosis because it detects the hormonal changes caused by reduced kidney blood flow. When the renal arteries narrow, the kidneys respond by increasing renin production, which activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and can lead to elevated plasma renin activity. This test measures both aldosterone and renin levels in your blood, providing a ratio that reveals how your kidneys are compensating for decreased perfusion. While imaging studies like renal angiography or Doppler ultrasound are needed for definitive diagnosis, this blood test provides critical insight into the functional impact of the narrowed arteries on your hormonal systems and helps guide treatment decisions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for renal artery stenosis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have difficult-to-control high blood pressure that requires multiple medications, especially if it started suddenly or worsened unexpectedly. Testing is also recommended if you experience a significant decline in kidney function, develop high blood pressure at a young age (under 30) or suddenly after age 55, or have a whooshing sound (bruit) heard over your kidney arteries during a physical exam. Additionally, if you have atherosclerosis in other parts of your body, such as your heart or legs, you may be at higher risk and should consider testing, as narrowed kidney arteries often accompany other vascular problems.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of renal artery stenosis?

Accepted Answer

The primary symptom of renal artery stenosis is high blood pressure that is difficult to control with standard medications or suddenly worsens despite previous good control. Many people experience no other noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as the condition progresses, you might notice signs of decreased kidney function such as fatigue, changes in urination patterns, swelling in your legs or ankles, or decreased appetite. Some people develop flash pulmonary edema, which is sudden fluid buildup in the lungs causing severe shortness of breath. The lack of obvious symptoms in many cases makes blood testing and monitoring particularly important if you have risk factors for the condition.

Question 6

Who is at risk for renal artery stenosis?

Accepted Answer

People with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease are at highest risk for renal artery stenosis, particularly older adults over age 50 with risk factors like smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. Men are slightly more likely to develop atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis than women. However, young to middle-aged women are at increased risk for the fibromuscular dysplasia form of the condition. Other risk factors include existing peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, obesity, and chronic kidney disease. If you have difficult-to-control high blood pressure despite multiple medications, your risk is significantly elevated and warrants evaluation.

Question 7

What happens if renal artery stenosis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated renal artery stenosis can lead to progressive and permanent kidney damage as prolonged reduced blood flow causes the kidney tissue to atrophy and lose function. This can eventually result in chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure requiring dialysis. The persistent activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system causes increasingly severe and resistant hypertension that damages other organs including your heart, brain, and eyes. You face higher risks of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and flash pulmonary edema. The longer the condition goes undiagnosed and untreated, the more likely you are to develop irreversible complications, making early detection through blood testing and appropriate treatment critical for preserving kidney function and preventing cardiovascular events.

Question 8

Can renal artery stenosis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot definitively diagnose renal artery stenosis, but they play a crucial role in detecting the hormonal and metabolic changes caused by the condition. The Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio test reveals how your kidneys are responding to reduced blood flow by measuring changes in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Elevated plasma renin activity is a key indicator that your kidneys are not receiving adequate blood flow. Additional blood tests that assess kidney function, such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), can reveal declining kidney performance. While definitive diagnosis requires imaging studies like CT angiography, MR angiography, or renal Doppler ultrasound to visualize the narrowed arteries, blood tests provide valuable supporting evidence and help monitor the condition's impact on your body.

Question 9

How is renal artery stenosis treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for renal artery stenosis focuses on managing blood pressure, preserving kidney function, and addressing the underlying artery narrowing. Medication is typically the first approach, using ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) to control blood pressure, along with medications to manage cholesterol and prevent blood clots. Lifestyle changes including a low-sodium diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and weight management are essential. For severe cases, especially when medications are ineffective or kidney function is declining, procedures like renal angioplasty and stenting may be performed to open the narrowed arteries and restore blood flow. In cases caused by fibromuscular dysplasia, angioplasty alone without stenting is often effective. Your healthcare provider will determine the best treatment approach based on the severity of narrowing, kidney function, blood pressure control, and underlying cause.

Question 10

How can I prevent renal artery stenosis?

Accepted Answer

Preventing renal artery stenosis focuses on reducing your risk of atherosclerosis and maintaining healthy blood vessels. Stop smoking or never start, as tobacco use is one of the strongest risk factors for arterial disease. Control your blood pressure through regular monitoring, medication if prescribed, and lifestyle modifications. Manage cholesterol levels with a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Maintain healthy blood sugar levels if you have diabetes, as uncontrolled diabetes accelerates arterial damage. Exercise regularly with at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to improve cardiovascular health. Maintain a healthy weight and limit sodium intake to reduce strain on your cardiovascular system. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help identify and address risk factors early before significant arterial narrowing develops.

Question 11

What can I do at home for renal artery stenosis?

Accepted Answer

While medical treatment is essential for renal artery stenosis, several home strategies can support your kidney health and blood pressure management. Monitor your blood pressure regularly at home and keep a log to share with your healthcare provider. Follow a kidney-friendly, low-sodium diet by limiting processed foods, canned soups, and restaurant meals, and instead focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Stay well-hydrated with water unless your doctor has given you fluid restrictions. Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed, even when you feel fine. Engage in regular gentle to moderate exercise as approved by your doctor to improve circulation and cardiovascular health. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, as chronic stress can elevate blood pressure. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen which can worsen kidney function, and limit alcohol consumption.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Renal Artery Stenosis Blood Test

What is Renal Artery Stenosis?

What causes renal artery stenosis?

What is the best test for renal artery stenosis?

When should I get tested for renal artery stenosis?

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