Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates potassium and sodium levels in the body. Primary aldosteronism can occur when the adrenal glands produce too much of the hormone, often due to a benign tumor. Secondary aldosteronism can be caused by other factors such as liver failure or kidney disease. Symptoms include high blood pressure, nausea, weakness, and muscle spasms. Treatment options include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery in severe cases. If left untreated, complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and stroke can occur.
Aldosterone is a vital hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Provides balance for the body’s levels of potassium and sodium. If aldosterone levels get out of balance, a disease known as aldosteronism can occur.
Primary aldosteronism is the condition in which the adrenal glands create too much of the hormone. This is often caused by a tumor within the gland, also known as Conn’s syndrome. These tumors are usually benign. Bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, a disorder in which both adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, can also cause primary aldosteronism. The cause of this disorder is unknown.
Secondary aldosteronism occurs when elevated aldosterone is caused by something other than the adrenal glands. These causes could be attributed to liver failure, dehydration, congestive heart failure, or kidney disease. Some drugs could also be responsible, such as fludrocortisone or diuretic drugs.
The occurrence of aldosteronism has become increasingly common and is thought to be the cause of high blood pressure and aldosterone hypertension in many patients. Results can include potassium loss and sodium retention. When this occurs, the body begins to retain water, resulting in increased blood volume and hypertension.
Symptoms of the condition include high blood pressure, nausea, weakness, frequent urination, muscle spasms, cramps and constipation. It is also possible for a patient to have no symptoms. A diagnosis can be made by measuring the levels of aldosterone in the blood and urine. A plasma renin activity test may also be conducted to determine which type of aldosteronism is present. If the primary condition is present, an endocrinologist will be needed for further analysis and treatment planning.
If left untreated, several complications can occur. Patients may be prone to heart failure and heart attacks. Left ventricular hypertrophy or enlargement of part of the heart may occur, as well as kidney disease or failure. High blood pressure caused by too much aldosterone can lead to heart disease or stroke later in life. Arrhythmias, although rare, can also develop, as can paralysis, respiratory failure, and death.
To treat aldosteronism, a doctor can prescribe a medication. Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and smoking cessation, may be necessary. In severe cases, such as when Conn’s syndrome turns out to be malignant, a patient may require surgery. If bilateral adrenal hyperplasia is found to be the cause of the condition, the adrenal glands may be removed if medication does not provide relief.
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