Find High-Quality Renal Artery Stenosis Treatment in Southern California

Renal artery stenosis is the narrowing of the blood vessels leading to the kidneys. Without treatment, it can cause kidney damage. Renal artery stenosis is most often caused by fatty plaque deposits that build up inside the renal arteries 

The doctors, nurses, and support staff at Dignity Health Southern California are committed to serving every patient and family with respect and compassion. That’s why we treat the whole person — not just the disease. 

Our cardiovascular treatments and heart services range from prevention and chronic disease management to advanced diagnostic procedures and treatment protocols. Find a Doctor who specializes in renal artery stenosis treatment in Southern California at our hospitals in Long Beach, Northridge, Downtown LA, and San Bernardino.

Your Options for Renal Stenosis Treatment at Dignity Health Southern California

Treatment for renal artery stenosis follows a three-pronged approach: lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery if necessary.

Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of renal artery stenosis, including: 

  • Getting plenty of exercise
  • Quitting smoking
  • Maintaining a healthy body weight
  • Eating a heart-healthy diet

Medications

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to prevent symptoms or stop the advancement of renal artery stenosis, your doctor may prescribe: 

  • Diuretics or water pills, to help your kidneys eliminate excess water
  • Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors to preserve kidney function and help treat high blood pressure
  • Blood thinners such as aspirin that allow your blood to flow more easily through partially blocked arteries
  • Cholesterol-lowering drugs, which stop more plaque from building up in the renal arteries

Surgery

You may need surgery if your renal artery stenosis does not improve with more conservative treatments, if it becomes more severe, or if it is caused by fibromuscular dysplasia.

Surgical options for renal artery stenosis include endarterectomy to remove the lining of the renal arteries and angioplasty, possibly with stenting, to open blocked renal arteries by flattening the plaque against the inner artery walls. 

Your doctor will tell you about the goals, risks, and potential complications of each treatment option. You’ll work together to create a treatment plan based on your symptoms, personal preferences, and overall health. Remember that all treatments have some risks.

Renal Artery Stenosis Prevention

The best way to reduce your risk of developing renal artery stenosis is to follow a heart-healthy lifestyle that includes plenty of exercise. This approach will help preserve your kidney function and support your overall cardiovascular health. Talk to your doctor about steps you can take to protect your heart health.

Dignity Health offers a variety of surgical and nonsurgical options for renal artery stenosis treatment in Southern California.