Hyperaldosteronism – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Hyperaldosteronism refers to a condition wherein the adrenal gland produces too much aldosterone. The hormone aldosterone normally helps control the potassium and sodium levels in the blood. Additionally, aldosterone helps regulate blood pressure.

When the body overproduces aldosterone, fluid levels increase because of the excess potassium loss and sodium retention. The increased fluid levels then cause a higher blood pressure.

If hyperaldosteronism occurs because of a disorder of the adrenal gland itself, the condition is called primary hyperaldosteronism. Primary hyperaldosteronism usually occurs among young and middle-aged adults. It is often caused by either a benign tumor of the gland or an overactive gland.

Known side effects of hyperaldosteronism

The side effects of hyperaldosteronism usually include:

• Blurred vision
• Excessive thirst
• Fatigue
• High blood pressure/hypertension – In patients with hyperaldosteronism, hypertension doesn’t decrease even after they take medication.
• Hypokalemia (or abnormally low potassium levels in the blood)
• Muscle weakness and muscle paralysis

There are no definite risk factors linked to the development of hyperaldosteronism.

Body systems harmed by hyperaldosteronism

Hyperaldosteronism may cause the following complications:

• Direct injury to heart tissues — This can eventually cause scarring and the enlargement of the left side of the heart.
• Injury to the blood vessels — The condition can also cause other complications linked to high blood pressure

When left untreated, hyperaldosteronism can increase the risk of:

• Heart attacks
• Heart failure
• Kidney failure
• Stroke

To avoid these complications, consult a healthcare professional who can help you formulate a long-term treatment plan for your hypertension. Regular follow-ups can also help you keep track of any changes in your blood potassium levels.

Food items or nutrients that may prevent hyperaldosteronism

If you have hyperaldosteronism, eat more grains, dairy products with low fat, fruits, and vegetables. These foods can help you lose weight and lower your blood pressure.

The Dash- Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Additionally, it is a good home remedy for primary hyperaldosteronism or primary aldosteronism.

Avoid the following if you have  hyperaldosteronism:

• Alcohol and caffeine — These substances will increase your blood pressure. Alcohol can make the medication that you’re taking ineffective, especially those that help manage your blood pressure.
• Salt/Sodium — Limit your sodium intake. Eat more organic food and products that contain little to no sodium. Try to avoid using salt whenever you can because it can aggravate your condition.

Treatments, management plans for hyperaldosteronism

Treatment for hyperaldosteronism aims to reduce aldosterone levels or to minimize the effects of aldosterone, hypertension, and low blood potassium. Options include:

• Medication — A healthcare professional might prescribe a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (spironolactone) for patients with hyperaldosteronism. This type of drug can help block the effects of aldosterone on the body like hypertension and low blood potassium. Some individuals may need additional medications to keep their blood pressure under control.
• Surgery — If a patient with the condition has a tumor on one of their adrenal glands, a surgeon may have to remove the affected gland via a procedure called an adrenalectomy. After this procedure, patients usually experience a gradual decrease in blood pressure. During recuperation, a healthcare professional will check your blood pressure regularly so the patient will know when to change their blood pressure medication. In time, patients can stop taking this medication as their condition improves.
• Lifestyle changes — Several lifestyle changes can help patients deal with the effects of high aldosterone levels. These include regular exercise, following a healthy diet, reduced alcohol and caffeine intake, and quitting smoking.

Where to learn more

• 12 Signs You’re Not Getting Enough Potassium
• Adriamycin – side effects, nutrient depletions, herbal interactions and health notes
• Aldosterone Provides New Treatment for Age-Related Hearing Loss
• How You Can Improve Your Hormones, Sleep, Heart and Brain Health
• Natural remedies treat adrenal fatigue

Summary

Hyperaldosteronism refers to a condition wherein the adrenal gland produces too much aldosterone. The hormone aldosterone normally helps control the potassium and sodium levels in the blood. Additionally, aldosterone helps regulate blood pressure.

The side effects of hyperaldosteronism may include blurred vision, excessive thirst, fatigue, hypertension, hypokalemia, and muscle weakness and muscle paralysis.

When left untreated, hyperaldosteronism can increase the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, kidney failure, and stroke.

If you have hyperaldosteronism, eat more grains, dairy products with low fat, fruits, and vegetables. These foods can help you lose weight and lower your blood pressure.

The Dash- Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Additionally, it is a good home remedy for primary hyperaldosteronism or primary aldosteronism.

Treatment for hyperaldosteronism aims to reduce aldosterone levels or to minimize the effects of aldosterone, hypertension, and low blood potassium. Options include medication (a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist/spironolactone), surgery (adrenalectomy), or lifestyle changes like regular exercise and dietary changes.

Sources include

DoveMed.com

EPainAssist.com

Healthline.com