Primary Aldosteronism
Answers to common questions about primary aldosteronism.
Questions on this page
What is primary aldosteronism?
Primary aldosteronism occurs when the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone.
This causes increased sodium retention and potassium loss in some patients and can lead to hypertension.
Can I have primary aldosteronism if my potassium is normal?
Yes.
Normal potassium does not exclude primary aldosteronism.
When should primary aldosteronism be considered?
It may be suspected particularly in people with:
- Difficult-to-control hypertension
- Hypertension at a young age
- Low potassium
- Adrenal adenoma
- Certain patterns of resistant hypertension
Can primary aldosteronism be treated?
Yes.
Treatment depends on the cause and may include targeted medication or surgery in appropriately selected patients.