DEFINITION
What Is Aldosteronism?
Aldosterone intensity is not a common disease. Men and women have the same risk of this disease. Aldosteronism usually affects individuals who have high blood pressure, as well as those aged 30-50 years.
How Common Is Aldosteronism?
Aldosteronism is rare. This disease can affect both men and women. Usually occurs in people who have high blood pressure, and those aged 30-50 years.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Aldosteronism?
The first signs of aldosteronism or high blood pressure are associated with hypokalemia. Other symptoms include weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, constipation, and frequent urination. In some cases, the patient may not show any symptoms.
There may be signs or symptoms not listed above. If you have any particular concerns about your symptoms, please consult your doctor.
When Should I See A Doctor?
Call your doctor to be tested and diagnosed if you have signs and symptoms of aldosteronism. Aldosteronism can cause an increase in blood pressure, so you should have your health checked regularly. Please consult a doctor if you have a risk of high blood pressure, such as:
- You are 45 years old or older
- Have a family member with a history of high blood pressure
- Overweight
- Active smoker
- Drink a lot of alcohol
- Unbalanced nutritional intake (too much salt and potassium deficiency)
REASONS
What Causes Aldosteronism?
The main cause of this disease is too much levels of the adrenal hormone aldosterone. There are 2 types of aldosteronism: primary hyperaldosteronism and secondary hyperaldosteronism.
Primary hyperaldosteronism occurs when an adrenal tumor appears. These tumors are benign tumors called adenomas. This disorder is also known as Conn.
Secondary hyperaldosteronism is usually caused by other diseases in the body such as congestive heart failure, liver failure, kidney disease, dehydration, or interactions with certain drugs such as ETICS diuretics or fludrocortisone.
RISK FACTORS
What Increases My Risk For Aldosteronism?
There are many factors that can increase your risk of developing aldosteronism:
- High blood pressure that must be treated by taking three or more drugs in combination
- High blood pressure since young (since less than 30 years old)
- Family with a history of stroke at a young age
- Low levels of potassium in the blood
TREATMENT
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What Are My Treatment Options For Aldosteronism?
Your doctor will choose a method of treating aldosteronism based on the cause. Overall, the goal of all treatments is to prevent aldosterone production, and prevent complications from high blood pressure and low potassium levels in the blood. Methods can include:
Treatment of tumors in the adrenal gland area
Surgery: the doctor may perform surgery to remove the adrenal tumour. Postoperatively, blood pressure and potassium levels will improve, and aldosterone levels will return to normal
Treatment: if you can't have surgery, you should use an aldosterone blocking drug as a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. However, high blood pressure and potassium levels in the blood will decrease as you stop smoking. Use medication as directed by your doctor
Treatment on both 2 adrenals
Treatment: mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists or spironolactone can help you control your blood pressure and potassium levels in your blood. Some drugs can cause side effects such as decreased libido, impotence, menstrual disorders and digestive disorders.
In addition, you need to change your life habits. Lifestyle changes and a healthy diet can help control your blood pressure. Always maintain a healthy weight, do exercise that is suitable for your body condition, and reduce smoking and alcoholic beverages, and always take medication as directed by your doctor.
What Are The Usual Tests For Aldosteronism?
To diagnose aldosteronism, doctors may use the following methods.
Screening: the doctor will perform tests to check the levels of aldosterone and renin in the blood. Renin is an enzyme that helps regulate blood pressure. Low concentrations of renin and aldosterone can cause high blood pressure
Diagnostic tests: If the results of a screening test indicate that you are at risk for an increase in aldosterone, your doctor will recommend that you continue with tests, such as an aldosterone test after an infusion, and a fludrocortisone test
Additional tests may include a CT scan of the abdomen and examination of the adrenal vessels
HOME REMEDIES
What Are Some Lifestyle Changes Or Home Remedies That Can Be Done To Treat Aldosteronism?
You can control your condition if you apply and maintain the following habits.
- Maintain a healthy diet. Limit the amount of salt in your diet, add vegetable and fruit supplements. Make your diet a variety that is good for your health, such as cereals, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods
- Maintain a healthy weight. If you have a BMI (Body Mass Index) greater than or equal to 25, weight loss can help control blood pressure
- Exercise: Walking and aerobic exercise can help control your blood pressure
- Do not smoke, limit the use of drinks containing caffeine or alcohol
If you have any questions, consult a doctor for the best solution for your problem.