HYPERALDOSTERONISM

(Aldosteronism; Conn's Syndrome)

 Basic information

description

Hyperaldosteronism is an endocrine disorder caused by too much aldosterone, a hormone made by the adrenal glands. These glands are attached to the upper part of the kidneys. Excess aldosterone causes the kidneys to take in too much sodium and water, and eliminate too much potassium (called hypokalemia). The disorder can affect both sexes (females more than males) and is more common in adults between ages 30 and 50.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Often, there are no symptoms. It may be diagnosed when checking for the cause of high blood pressure.
• Symptoms that occur may include fatigue, muscle cramps or weakness, heart palpitations, frequent urination, headache, and temporary paralysis (sometimes).
• High blood pressure (usually diagnosed with blood pressure testing).

causes

• Primary hyperaldosteronism:
  • Is often caused by an aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA). This is a noncancerous (benign) tumor of the adrenal gland.
  • It may also be caused by idiopathic hyperaldosteronism or IHA (also referred to BAH or bilateral adrenal hyperplasia).
  • There are other, more rare causes including an inherited condition and cancer.
• Secondary hyperaldosteronism is caused by conditions outside of the adrenal glands. These include high blood pressure, cirrhosis of the liver, heart failure, or nephrotic (kidney) syndrome.

risk increases with

• High blood pressure (hypertension).
• Disorders listed above that can lead to secondary hyperaldosteronism.
• Family history of hyperaldosteronism.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

There are no known preventive measures.

expected outcomes

• With early diagnosis and treatment of primary hyperaldosteronism, the outcome is good.
• With secondary hyperaldosteronism, the outcome will vary depending on the cause.

possible complications

• Poorly controlled high blood pressure. It can lead to cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) complications and kidney disease or failure.
• Long-term drug therapy in men may lead to impotence or enlarged breasts (gynecomastia).

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history. Medical tests usually include checking the levels of sodium and potassium in the blood. Other blood studies may be done to measure the levels of aldosterone and renin (an enzyme released by the kidneys). A CT or MRI of the adrenal glands may be done.
• Treatment depends on the cause. It may include surgery, drug therapy, diet changes, and other lifestyle changes.
• An adrenal adenoma is usually removed with laparoscopic surgery (called adrenalectomy). This can cure or improve high blood pressure in most patients.
• Other causes of primary hyperaldosteronism and the underlying causes of secondary hyperaldosteronism are usually treated with drugs and diet changes.
• Don't smoke. Find a way to quit that works for you.
• Wear a medical alert bracelet or other ID to identify your medical condition and any drugs that you take.

medications

• Drugs for high blood pressure and to decrease the aldosterone effect may be prescribed.
• Drugs may be prescribed for underlying causes.

activity

• If surgery is needed, your health care provider will advise you of any limitations.
• Get regular exercise to help maintain good health.

diet

• You may be prescribed a diet that is low in sodium.
• Maintain a healthy weight. If overweight is a problem, a weight-loss diet may be recommended.
• Limit alcohol use.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has hyperaldosteronism symptoms.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

Special Notes: