What is Hyperaldosteronism (aka Conn Syndrome)

Hyperaldosteronism (aka Conn Syndrome) is a condition in which the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone.  Aldosterone is a steroid hormone (mineralocorticoid steroid) produced by the outer section of he adrenal cortex.  Aldosterone causes the kidneys to retain water and sodium, increase the blood pressure, and lower potassium.  It can lead to heart disease and kidney disease if not treated. 

Too little potassium is called hypokalemia.  Signs of hypokalemia can include: muscle weakness, myalgia, and muscle cramps.  It can also cause arrythmias.  More severe cases can cause flaccid paralysis characterized by weakness or paralysis and reduced muscle tone.  It can also cause hyporflexia characterized by below normal or absent reflexes.

Primary aldosteronism was initially thought to be caused by an adrenal adenoma, also known as Conn's Syndrome.  Recent studies have shown that bilateral hyperplasia (both adrenals producing aldosterone) is the cause in up to 70% of cases.  Primary aldosteronism is treated with removal of the adenoma.  Bilateral hyperplasia is treated with meds: usually spironolactone.  

Symptoms to look for:

-Fatigue
-Headache
-High Blood Presure
-Hypokalemia
-Hypernatremia
-Intermittent or temporary paralysis
-Muscle spasms
-Muscle weakness
-Numbness
-Polyuria
-Polydipsia
-Tingling
-Metabolic alkalosis

Diagnosis is usually made with a blood test that shows the level of aldosterone is high and the level of renin activity is low in primary aldosteronism and high levels of renin in secondary hyperaldosteronism.