What is Primary aldosteronism?

Primary aldosteronism is a condition in which the adrenal glands produce too much of the hormone aldosterone. Aldosterone helps to regulate blood pressure by controlling the balance of sodium and potassium in the body. When aldosterone levels are too high, it can lead to high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and other health problems.

Primary aldosteronism is most often caused by a small tumor on one or both adrenal glands. This type of tumor is called an adrenal adenoma. In some cases, primary aldosteronism is caused by a condition called idiopathic hyperaldosteronism, which means that the cause of the high aldosterone levels is not known.

Symptoms of primary aldosteronism can include:

* High blood pressure

* Low potassium levels

* Headaches

* Muscle weakness

* Fatigue

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Increased urination

* Thirst

Primary aldosteronism is diagnosed with a variety of tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies. Treatment for primary aldosteronism may include medication to lower blood pressure and potassium levels, surgery to remove the adrenal adenoma, or a combination of both.