hormonal and metabolic disorders
Hyperaldosteronism
Introduction
In hyperaldosteronism, overproduction of the hormone aldosterone leads to fluid retention and increased blood pressure, weakness, and, rarely, periods of paralysis. Hyperaldosteronism can be caused by a tumor in the adrenal gland or may be a response to some diseases. High aldosterone levels can cause high blood pressure and low potassium levels. Low potassium levels may cause weakness, tingling, muscle spasms, and periods of temporary paralysis. Doctors measure the levels of sodium, potassium, and aldosterone in the blood. Sometimes, a tumor is removed, or people take drugs that block the action of aldosterone. (See also Overview of the Adrenal Glands .) ), which is secreted by the Overview of the Pituitary Gland , but mainly through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (see figure Hyperaldosteronism can be caused by a tumor (usually a noncancerous adenoma) in the adrenal gland (a condition called Conn syndrome or primary hyperaldosteronism), although sometimes both glands are involved and are overactive. Sometimes hyperaldosteronism is a response to something else (a condition called secondary hyperaldosteronism), for example, certain diseases, such as narrowing of one of the arteries to the kidneys. Eating large amounts of real licorice can cause all the symptoms of hyperaldosteronism. Real licorice contains a chemical that can act as though there is too much aldosterone. However, most candy sold as "licorice" is artificially flavored and contains little or no real licorice. 