Aldosterone - Serum

Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, located right above the kidneys. This hormone is responsible for controlling blood pressure and maintaining the level of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium in the body. 

When the electrolytes are in order, the body has enough fluids, and all the muscles and nerves function properly. So, if the aldosterone levels are abnormal, it can hamper your body's functioning. 

Usually, doctors also prescribe the renin test along with the aldosterone test. Renin is a hormone secreted by the kidneys which signals the adrenal glands to produce aldosterone. This combined test is often named the aldosterone-plasma renin test, aldosterone-renin ratio test, or aldosterone urine test. 

The aldosterone test is done through a blood test, wherein a blood sample is taken from your arm. The aldosterone level may vary depending on whether you get the blood test while standing or lying down. It is always best to take the blood sample in both positions. 

Another way to measure aldosterone is through a urine test collected during a 24-hour time slot. In simple terms, you need to collect your urine throughout the day, store it in a container and keep it for ice cooling. 
Getting the aldosterone test done can help:

• Diagnose adrenal insufficiency, which is a disorder that causes the adrenal gland not to produce enough aldosterone.
• Determine if you have a primary or secondary aldosteronism where the adrenal gland produces too much aldosterone.
• Figure out the primary cause behind high blood pressure.
• Check whether there is any tumour on the adrenal gland.

So, if you observe any of the following symptoms, you might be suffering from excessive aldosterone production:

• Tingling
• Frequent urination
• Muscle spasms or cramps
• Weakness
• Increased thirst
• Temporary paralysis

And, if you notice any of the following symptoms, your body may be producing too little aldosterone:

• Fatigue
• Abdominal spasm
• Low blood pressure
• Diarrhoea
• Weight loss
• Muscle weakness
• Dark skin patches
• Vomiting and nausea
• Low body hair

These symptoms require proper testing, so it is wise to reach out to your healthcare practitioner for the diagnosis and further instructions. 

Make sure that you do not consume any of the following medicines for a minimum 2 weeks before taking the aldosterone test:

• Heart medicines
• Diuretics
• High blood pressure medicines
• Hormones like progesterone and estrogen
• Ulcer and antacid medicines

Additionally, do not consume extremely salty food like canned soup, chips, bacon, pretzels, soy sauce, etc., for at least 2 weeks. 

You can also ask your healthcare provider if you need to change your diet or medications. 

Get your aldosterone test done today, only through Apollo 24|7. We will do the test right from the comfort of your house!

Medically reviewed by Dr.Sunil Kumar, Sr Nephrologist, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata.