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Instead, extremely high levels of the precursor hormone corticosterone are produced, some of which is converted to 11-Deoxycorticosterone (DOC), a potent mineralocorticoid not normally clinically important in humans. DOC has blood-pressure raising effects similar to aldosterone, and abnormally high levels result in hypokalemic hypertension. [39]
Familial hyperaldosteronism is a group of inherited conditions in which the adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of each kidney, produce too much of the hormone aldosterone. [1] Excess aldosterone causes the kidneys to retain more salt than normal, which in turn increases the body's fluid levels and causes high blood pressure. [1]
Hyperaldosteronism is a medical condition wherein too much aldosterone is produced. High aldosterone levels can lead to lowered levels of potassium in the blood (hypokalemia) and increased hydrogen ion excretion . Aldosterone is normally produced in the adrenal glands.
One theory is that high progesterone levels act as an antagonist to the cortisol. The adrenal gland also produces more aldosterone, leading to an eight-fold increase in aldosterone. [5] Women do not show signs of hyperaldosterone, such as hypokalemia, hypernatremia, or high blood pressure.
Aldosterone release causes sodium and water retention, which causes increased blood volume, and a subsequent increase in blood pressure, which is sensed by the baroreceptors. [39] To maintain normal homeostasis these receptors also detect low blood pressure or low blood volume, causing aldosterone to be released.
Pregnancy puts women at higher risk for stroke, especially in the last month before delivery and the first six weeks after giving birth, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Other medications for high blood pressure and a low salt diet, e.g. DASH diet, may also be needed. [1] [4] Some people with familial hyperaldosteronism may be treated with the steroid dexamethasone. [1] Primary aldosteronism is present in about 10% of people with high blood pressure. [1] It occurs more often in women than men. [5]
You might only experience high blood pressure symptoms if your blood pressure is very high. Very high blood pressure can cause symptoms like: Nosebleeds. Anxiety. Severe headaches. Chest pain ...