Aldosterone regulates electrolyte levels by reabsorbing sodium and excreting potassium. High or low levels can cause health problems. Renin helps regulate aldosterone release, and tests can determine levels through blood or urine samples. Proper preparation is important for accurate results.
Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone essential for life because it regulates the amount of electrolytes in the body. It is secreted by the adrenal cortex, part of the adrenal gland, and is responsible for the reabsorption of sodium into the bloodstream. This hormone also stimulates the excretion of potassium.
Sodium and potassium levels are regulated simultaneously by aldosterone, helping maintain both blood pressure and body fluids. If the levels of this hormone are out of sync, it can cause problems in the body. High levels can cause high blood pressure, muscle cramps and weakness, while low levels can indicate a disease, such as diabetes. Often, aldosterone levels vary between genders and can be affected by the amount of sodium in a person’s diet. Women often have significantly higher levels during pregnancy.
The hormone renin, produced by the kidney, helps regulate the release of aldosterone, and levels of both hormones are often compared for diagnostic purposes. An aldosterone test can be done to determine the cause of high or low blood potassium or certain conditions, such as heart failure or kidney disease.
Most often, aldosterone levels are determined through a blood test. A urine test may be ordered as an alternative, although this is rare. People being tested for their hormone levels may be asked to stop taking certain medications that could affect results, including some hormone supplements and some medications that control high blood pressure. A patient may also be asked to eat a specific diet for the two week period before the test.
Normal laboratory values may vary slightly and the accuracy of test results may depend on proper preparation as advised by a physician. He will discuss the test results with the patient and explain what the values mean during a follow-up appointment.
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