The Kidney and High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

There are many causes of high blood pressure (hypertension), one of which relates to narrowing or occlusion of the arteries (renal) that supply blood to the kidneys. This occurs in approximately 3-5 % of patients and is more common in patients with severe and uncontrollable hypertension. There are two conditions that cause narrowing, atherosclerosis in the elderly and in younger patients, commonly women, fibromuscular disease. Vascular Ultrasound is used to image the main arteries supplying the kidney and the arteries within the kidneys themselves. Measurements of blood flow determine the presence and significance of disease. Finally, the size and appearance of each kidney is also assessed. In some patients, hypertension and renal failure related renal artery disease can be cured by balloon angioplasty and stenting.