How does the success of medicine compare with the success of procedures?

Angioplasty and stenting have not been shown to be better than controlling blood pressure with medications. This is because, in most people, renal artery stenosis may be present but does not cause high blood pressure. In such cases, opening up the artery will not result in improved blood pressure. It is suggested that this procedure be reserved for those whose blood pressure cannot be controlled by medications, who experience unacceptable side effects with their blood pressure medications, who developed rapidly worsening kidney function or who have a rapid build-up of fluid in their lungs called flash pulmonary edema.

What can I do to help relieve the symptoms of renal hypertension?

There are no at-home remedies that can help with renal hypertension. However, you should always take your medicines as prescribed, eat healthy and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Is renal hypertension curable?

In theory, if the renal artery stenosis is reversed, then the hypertension should improve.

Are there complications?

If you have renal hypertension, you might experience the following complications that are caused by high blood pressure, including:

• Renal failure.
• Myocardial infarction.
• Stroke.
• Pulmonary edema.
• Retinopathy.
• Left ventricular hypertrophy.
• Congestive heart failure.
• Aneurysm.
• Vascular dementia.

What can I do to help control my high blood pressure?

A healthy lifestyle is key to helping control any type of hypertension. Making changes in daily habits can help, such as:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet: Choose fruits, vegetables, grains and low-fat dairy foods.
• Exercising regularly, at least 30 minutes a day of moderate activity, such as walking (check with your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program).
• Keeping your weight under control: Check with your healthcare provider for a weight-loss program, if needed.
• Quitting smoking, if you smoke.
• Cutting back on beverages that contain alcohol.
• Limiting caffeine intake.
• Limiting sodium (salt) in your diet: Read nutrition labels on packaged foods to learn how much sodium is in one serving.
• Reducing and avoiding stress when possible: Many people find that regular meditation or yoga helps.

Is renal hypertension fatal?

If you don’t get your renal hypertension treated, you might end up having end-stage renal failure (your kidney will not work anymore). The median survival time of someone with end-stage renal failure is about two years.

How do I take care of myself?

Take your medicines and do your best to keep your blood pressure low. Keep your body healthy by eating right, exercising and quitting smoking. Follow up with your appointments with your healthcare provider. What questions should I ask my healthcare provider about renal hypertension?

• How high is my blood pressure?
• What medications should I be on?
• Should I have surgery?

Key Takeaways Renal hypertension is a very serious disease. You and your healthcare provider need to pay close attention to your blood pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) can cause heart attack, aneurysm and stroke, among other complications. Work with your healthcare provider to figure out the best treatment and be sure to take all medications and follow all post-operative instructions perfectly.