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Contents
  • The Role of Aldosterone
  • Link to Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Impacts on Kidney Function

Uncovering the Hidden Risk Factors of Primary Aldosteronism

Uncovering the Hidden Risk Factors of Primary Aldosteronism

Why It Matters

Primary aldosteronism isn't just about high blood pressure; it's a potential risk factor for other health issues. Here's what you need to know.
Contents
  • The Role of Aldosterone
  • Link to Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Impacts on Kidney Function

The Role of Aldosterone

Aldosterone is a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure by controlling sodium and potassium levels. In primary aldosteronism, excess aldosterone leads to high blood pressure and can disrupt normal heart and kidney functions. This imbalance can make the condition a hidden risk factor for more serious cardiovascular problems.

Link to Cardiovascular Diseases

Patients with primary aldosteronism have a higher risk of cardiovascular conditions than those with regular hypertension. Increased aldosterone levels can lead to heart complications like left ventricular hypertrophy and atrial fibrillation. Managing aldosterone levels is crucial to reducing these risks and improving heart health.
Primary aldosteronism is a condition characterized by excessive aldosterone production, leading to high blood pressure and increased risk of cardiovascular problems.

Impacts on Kidney Function

Primary aldosteronism can also affect the kidneys by increasing glomerular filtration rate and urinary albumin excretion. This can lead to kidney damage if left untreated. However, with proper treatment, these changes are often reversible, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and management.

FAQs

How does aldosterone affect the heart?

Excess aldosterone can lead to heart issues like hypertrophy and atrial fibrillation.

Is primary aldosteronism a kidney risk?

Yes, it can lead to increased filtration and potential kidney damage.

Can treatment reverse kidney damage?

Yes, with proper treatment, kidney function changes are often reversible.

What is left ventricular hypertrophy?

It's the thickening of the heart's left ventricular wall, often due to high blood pressure.

The Bottom Line

Are you aware of how primary aldosteronism could be impacting your health?
Talk with Doctronic to explore your risk factors and potential treatment options.
Additional References
  1. Monticone S, et al. Cardiovascular events in primary aldosteronism: Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2018; 6:41.
  2. Pitt B, et al. Eplerenone in left ventricular dysfunction: N Engl J Med 2003; 348:1309.
  3. Williams JS, et al. 50th anniversary of aldosterone: J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2003; 88:2364.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.