Hyperaldosteronism
Hyperaldosteronism occurs when the adrenal glands produce excess amounts of aldosterone, which is responsible for regulating the body's salt and potassium balance. The disease is twice as common in women as in men, and generally strikes people aged 30-50.
Primary hyperaldosteronism can be caused by a small tumor (usually benign) in the adrenal gland that increases aldosterone production, or by enlargement (hyperplasia) of both adrenal glands that occurs as a result of other health conditions, such as cirrhosis of the liver or hypertension. If there is only one tumor involved, it's called Conn's syndrome.
Symptoms
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Increased salt levels, leading to fluid retention
- Low potassium levels
- Weakness
- Excessive urination
- Muscle spasms
- Temporary/intermittent paralysis (rare)
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