How to Diagnose Hyperaldosteronism

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By Bonnie Bruneau
eHow Contributing Writer

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Adrenal Glands

Hyperaldosteronism, also called Conn's syndrome or primary aldosteronism, is a condition in which the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, which can then lead to lower potassium levels. This, in turn, can create fluid retention, an increase in blood pressure (because potassium normally helps regulate blood pressure), weakness and moments of paralysis (this last symptom is rare).

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

How to Diagnose Hyperaldosteronism

Step 1

Before you can get a diagnosis of hyperaldosteronism, you first need to understand the symptoms (you will also want to relay this information to your doctor). Symptoms include: tiredness/fatigue, muscle weakness, urinating a large amount (especially at night), high blood pressure, numbness, and intermittent paralysis.
Step 2

Visit your doctor to report the symptoms you have been having.
Step 3

Make sure that your doctor orders some tests. The first will be a blood and/or urine test to measure the amount of renin and aldosterone. If the level is high, other tests might then be ordered, including an ECG, which would show abnormalities in the heart rhythm (caused by low potassium levels), saline loading, oral salt loading and FST (fludrocortisone suppression test). If a diagnosis of hyperaldosteronism is suspected, the doctor may then order an abdominal CT scan that will show if a tumor (or adrenal mass) has developed and an adrenal vein sampling (used to determine whether hormone production is on one side or both).