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Is Your High Blood Pressure a Sign of Primary Aldosteronism?
Published: Feb 27, 2024
Primary aldosteronism is an often-missed cause of high blood pressure. Discover its symptoms and the impact it can have on your health.
Understanding Primary Aldosteronism
Primary aldosteronism is a condition where the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure and sometimes low potassium levels. It's underdiagnosed but could account for up to 20% of hypertension cases. The main types include aldosterone-producing adenomas and bilateral idiopathic hyperaldosteronism.
Symptoms: More Than Just High Blood Pressure
While high blood pressure is a key symptom, primary aldosteronism can also cause low potassium levels, though this is less common than once thought. Patients might not even notice symptoms until they experience severe blood pressure issues or fatigue. In some cases, kidney function and the heart can also be affected, increasing the risk for cardiovascular diseases.
Genetic Insights
Research shows that genetic mutations, especially in the KCNJ5 gene, are linked to many cases of aldosterone-producing adenomas. These mutations lead to excessive aldosterone production, which in turn causes the symptoms of primary aldosteronism. Understanding these genetic links helps in diagnosing and potentially tailoring treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a condition where the adrenal glands excessively produce aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure.
It might be responsible for 5 to 20% of high blood pressure cases.
Yes, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases like stroke and heart attack.
No, low potassium is not always present in primary aldosteronism cases.
Key Takeaways
Could your hypertension be linked to primary aldosteronism?
References
- Funder JW, et al. The Management of Primary Aldosteronism: J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2016; 101:1889.
- Young WF Jr. Diagnosis and treatment of primary aldosteronism: J Intern Med 2019; 285:126.
- Mulatero P, et al. Guidelines for primary aldosteronism: J Hypertens 2016; 34:2253.
- Brown JM, et al. The Unrecognized Prevalence of Primary Aldosteronism: Ann Intern Med 2020; 173:10.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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