Hyperaldosteronism

Persistent increase in arterial blood pressure, muscle weakness, cramps, increased thirst or frequent urination may sometimes be associated not only with cardiovascular diseases or lifestyle. In some cases, such symptoms occur due to hormonal disorders that affect the water-electrolyte balance of the body.

One of the possible causes of such changes is hyperaldosteronism. This is an endocrine disease associated with excessive activity of the adrenal glands and increased production of the hormone aldosterone. Timely consultation with an endocrinologist and a comprehensive examination help determine the cause of changes in well-being and select the optimal treatment strategy.

Hyperaldosteronism is a condition in which the adrenal glands produce an excessive amount of the hormone aldosterone. This hormone is responsible for the regulation of sodium, potassium, and water levels in the body, and also affects blood pressure.

An excess of aldosterone leads to the retention of sodium and fluid in the body, which causes an increase in blood pressure. At the same time, the level of potassium in the blood decreases, which can cause muscle weakness, heart rhythm disorders, and other symptoms.

In many patients, the disease for a long time manifests only as persistent arterial hypertension that responds poorly to standard treatment. That is why hyperaldosteronism is considered one of the important causes of secondary arterial hypertension that must be excluded during examination.

In some patients, the symptoms may be mild. Sometimes the only sign of the disease for a long time remains arterial hypertension, which requires additional examination to determine its cause.

The causes of the development of this hormonal disorder may be different. The most common factors include:

• benign tumors of the adrenal glands;
• hyperplasia (enlargement) of the adrenal cortex;
• kidney diseases;
• impaired blood supply to the kidneys;
• heart failure;
• chronic liver diseases;
• prolonged activation of the renin-angiotensin system, which regulates blood pressure and water-salt balance.

In some cases, the development of the disease may be associated with a genetic predisposition or features of the hormonal regulation of the body.

Diagnosis is aimed at two main tasks: to determine whether the level of the hormone aldosterone in the body is elevated and to find out the cause of its excessive production. For this purpose, the endocrinologist evaluates symptoms, results of laboratory tests, and data from instrumental studies.

The examination is usually carried out step by step and may include:

• laboratory blood tests to determine the level of aldosterone and renin;
• calculation of the aldosterone-to-renin ratio, which helps to suspect a hormonal disorder;
• assessment of electrolyte levels in the blood, in particular sodium and potassium;
• 24-hour urine analysis to determine the excretion of hormones and electrolytes;
• special functional tests that confirm excessive production of aldosterone;
• instrumental visualization methods to assess the structure of the adrenal glands.

One of the important methods of instrumental diagnosis is CT of the adrenal glands, which allows assessment of their size, structure, and detection of possible neoplasms or signs of hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe additional studies to clarify the nature of the detected changes.

Comprehensive interpretation of the examination results allows differentiation between primary and secondary hyperaldosteronism, determination of the source of the hormonal disorder, and selection of the optimal tactic for further treatment.

If the hormonal imbalance is not corrected for a long time, excess aldosterone may negatively affect the functioning of the cardiovascular system, kidneys, and other organs. Without treatment, the risk of complications gradually increases.

Possible consequences:

• persistent arterial hypertension that is poorly controlled with medication;
• heart rhythm disturbance;
• thickening of the heart muscle and development of heart failure;
• stroke or heart attack;
• kidney damage and gradual decrease of their function;
• chronic disturbances of the water-electrolyte balance.

Timely diagnosis and properly selected treatment help reduce the risk of developing these complications and improve blood pressure control.

The cost of treatment of hyperaldosteronism depends on the form of the disease and the chosen treatment strategy. You can ознакомиться with current prices for doctor consultations and other medical services here. The doctor will provide more detailed guidance regarding the necessary examinations and possible treatment options during the consultation. You can make an appointment at a convenient time for you by phone or by using the online appointment form on the website.