User:Mr. Ibrahem/Hyperaldosteronism

Hyperaldosteronism is the condition of too much aldosterone production. Symptoms may vary from none, to high blood pressure and low potassium. The blood pressure is often difficult to treat and can results in tiredness, headaches, and increased urination. The low potassium can result in muscle weakness, muscle cramps, numbness, and heart arrhythmias. Complications can include heart disease.

It is divided into two types primary and secondary. Primary cases occur due to excess production by the adrenal gland such as with bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or an adrenal adenoma (Conn's syndrome). Secondary cases occur due to excessive activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) such as with renin-producing tumors, renal artery stenosis, heart failure, pregnancy, or cirrhosis. High aldosterone levels result in increased sodium reabsorption by the kidneys. Diagnosis is suspected based on blood tests and confirmed by urine aldosterone.

In primary disease resulting from one adrenal gland, surgical removal is the treatment of choice. In primary disease were both adrenal glands are involved spironolactone or eplerenone together with life style changes, including a low salt diet, is recommended. For secondary disease treatment is directed at the underlying cause. ACE inhibitors are often used to treat high blood pressure and protect the kidneys.

Primary hyperaldosteronism is present in about 10% of cases of high blood pressure while secondary causes are less common. Women are more often affected than men. Primary hyperaldosteronism was first described in 1955 by Jerome W. Conn, an American endocrinologist.