Suggest Treatment For Hyperaldosteronism
No symptoms, but in my 6 monthly blood test to assess my anti - convulsive medication standard, and while expecting hyperkalemia, as it has always been high, aldosterone level has been discovered as being very high.
Is this dangerous.?
I have had terrible itching on my back for 3 days, and I wonder if that is related.
Thank you
Hyperaldosteronism
Detailed Answer:
The itching is likely unrelated to hyperaldosteronism.
Hyperaldosteronism can be dangerous if untreated as it can lead to very high blood pressure and low blood potassium.
When I see someone like you in my practice, I typically order the following blood tests in addition to a detailed physical examination:
CBC (Complete Blood Count, also known as Hemogram; includes Hemoglobin, WBC and Platelet counts)
Electrolytes (Sodium and Potassium in particular)
HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin = your last 3 months' glucose average). Also known by other names such as GlycoHemoglobin or Glycated Hemoglobin or A1c
Liver function tests (SGOT , SGPT, Albumin, Bilirubin, Alkaline Phosphatase)
Kidney function tests (BUN, Creatinine)
TSH (checks your thyroid)
ARR (Aldosterone Renin Ratio)= Plasma Aldosterone Concentrations / Plasma Renin Activity
25 hydroxy Vitamin D levels (ideal range 40 to 60 ng/ml = 100 to 150 nmol/liter)
None of these tests require any fasting but the ARR requires a morning blood collection. Request your endocrinologist for instructions if (s)he orders this test for you.