The notion of aldosterone is used in the field of biochemistry. It is a steroidal hormone: that is, a steroid that works like a hormone. To know what aldosterone is, therefore, it is necessary to understand these two terms.
Hormone is a substance that certain glands secrete and which, when distributed by the body through the circulation, manages to regulate, inhibit or excite the activity of the organs. A steroid, on the other hand, is a chemical substance from which it is possible to obtain different compounds that are very important for biological functioning.
Aldosterone, in this way, is produced by the adrenal glands and is in charge of regulating the metabolism of electrolytes (elements that undergo electrolysis: they can be broken down by electric current). Belonging to the group of mineralocorticoids, aldosterone increases blood pressure and contributes to the secretion of potassium and storage of sodium, for example.
There are many people who are in need of a test to know the levels of aldosterone they have. These are individuals who are suffering from problems with blood pressure such as orthostatic hypotension. That without forgetting that those with a tension that is really difficult to have under control will also have to undergo an examination.
In order to know the mentioned levels, it is possible to choose analyzes such as the captopril test, the corticotropin test or the intravenous saline infusion test.
The level of aldosterone in the body can be affected by various disorders. It is called aldosteronism or hyperaldosteronism production and excessive aldosterone secretion, leading to an alteration to the amount of potassium is reduced in blood plasma and, therefore, can elevate blood pressure. This disorder can also cause headache, spasms, and chronic fatigue.
The disease of Addison, however, generates a decrease in the amount of aldosterone and cause gastric and heart problems, as well as a picture of general weakness.
In addition to these pathologies, the low level of aldosterone may also be due to the person carrying out a diet very rich in sodium or to having congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
If the results obtained are higher than normal it may be due to diseases such as these:
-Cushing’s syndrome. People who suffer from it have skin infections, a full moon face and frequent back pain, among other symptoms. Diabetes, kidney stones or a marked osteoporosis are some of the most serious consequences and difficulties that are associated with this pathology.
-Bartter syndrome. It is a really rare disease and manifests itself through constant vomiting, a marked delay in growth, a notable tendency to dehydration, the periodic appearance of kidney stones… The only treatment that can be given to these people is a diet rich in potassium and sodium, although, in certain cases, the use of inhibitors will be necessary.
