Is it normal to have high BP with normal renal Doppler?

Question

Hello doctor,

My BP is 160/100 mm/Hg, and the RFT is normal. My doctor asked for a renal Doppler test. The renal aortic ratio is 1.2, and the acceleration time is less than 7 ms, which is within normal limits. This is my old report. Please check if everything is good.

Also, what is the relationship between BP and the renal Doppler test?

Please see this report.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Based on the Doppler report you have attached (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity), there is no evidence of renal artery stenosis (the narrowing of one or both arteries supplying blood to the kidneys). So the Doppler itself is normal, and there is no structural abnormality to explain your high blood pressure.

Even if your renal function test (RFT) is standard, when a patient presents with high blood pressure, such as 160/100 mm/Hg, we always keep a few differential diagnoses in mind. One of the essential causes of secondary hypertension (high blood pressure) is renal artery stenosis (narrowing of the kidney blood vessels).

Due to the condition, you may have the following symptoms.

Sudden onset of high BP (blood pressure).
BP that is difficult to control.
Sometimes normal RFT despite hypertension.

A renal Doppler is a noninvasive way to check:

Whether blood flow to the kidneys is normal.
Whether there is any narrowing in the renal arteries.
Whether the kidneys show signs of chronic damage.

In your case, the Doppler shows no stenosis, which is reassuring.

Blood pressure and kidney health are closely linked. Kidneys help regulate blood pressure by controlling fluid and hormone balance. If kidney arteries are narrowed, the kidneys sense low blood flow and release hormones that raise BP sharply. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension (an increase in blood pressure) can also damage the kidneys.

So, even with a normal RFT, it is important to evaluate the kidney blood supply whenever BP is significantly elevated.

Since the Doppler is normal, your high BP is more likely due to essential hypertension (the standard type). Your BP control should proceed with lifestyle measures and medication.

Start appropriate BP medication as advised by your doctor.
Monitor BP at home.
Reduce salt intake.
Maintain adequate hydration.
Follow up regularly.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is perfectly normal to have a 10 to 20 mm difference in either hand, so do not worry.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.