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Diagnosing & Treating Renal Artery Stenosis in Williamsport, PA

Renal artery stenosis (RAS) is a condition in which there is a blockage in an artery near the kidneys. If untreated, it can cause kidney failure and high blood pressure. It is common in men between the ages of 50 and 70 and those who smoke. High cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and family history are also risk factors for RAS.

Causes of renal artery stenosis may include atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque or cholesterol) or other conditions such as fibromuscular dysplasia and Takayasu's arteritis (a rare inflammatory disease).

If you or a loved has or is at risk for renal artery stenosis, vascular surgeons at Susquehanna Health can help. Through compassionate care and advanced treatments, our Heart and Vascular Institute provides access to world-class care. To learn more about how we treat renal artery stenosis in Williamsport, PA, Find a Provider at UPMC.

Renal Artery Stenosis Symptoms

Symptoms of renal artery stenosis may vary on a case-to-case basis, but can include:

  • Sudden onset of high blood pressure
  • High blood pressure that is unresponsive to three or more medications
  • Increased urea (waste product) in the blood
  • Kidney failure

Speak with a cardiologist at UPMC Williamsport if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.

Renal Artery Stenosis Causes

Renal artery stenosis occurs when the arteries that carry blood to one or both kidneys become narrowed. This is more common in older people who have atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Left untreated, renal artery stenosis can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure) and cause kidney damage.

Renal Artery Stenosis Treatment at UPMC 

Your vascular surgeon will develop a treatment plan specific to your age, overall health, medical history, extent of the condition and symptoms.

Common treatments for renal artery stenosis include:

  • Medications to treat high blood pressure or lower cholesterol
  • Treatment for related conditions such as diabetes
  • Endovascular surgical procedures such as angioplasty or stent insertion
  • Open surgical procedures to bypass the obstructed artery

UPMC  offers specialty care and treatment for renal artery stenosis in Williamsport, PA, and the surrounding areas.