 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Renovascular hypertension
| | | |
| |
| |
| Renovascular hypertension |
|
Definition:
Renovascular hypertension (high blood pressure) is caused by narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the kidneys. Alternative Names:
Renal hypertension; Hypertension - renovascular Text Continues Below
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Renovascular hypertension is a form of secondary hypertension. Most forms of hypertension are considered "essential," and the cause is unknown. But a small number of high blood pressure patients have "secondary hypertension," which means an underlying disease is identified as the cause. During renovascular hypertension, one or both of the kidney arteries become narrow. This reduces blood flow to the kidneys, and the affected kidney or kidneys mistakenly respond as if the patient's blood pressure is low. They secrete hormones that tell the body to retain salt and water. This causes an increase in blood pressure. Many different diseases can cause narrowing of the renal arteries. Renal artery stenosis is one of the most common.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. | |
| 
.gif)
