What is Aldosterone Test, Serum? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is an aldosterone Serum test?
It measures the amount of aldosterone present in the blood.
An aldosterone test is combined with other tests for renin (a hormone made by the kidneys). Renin is a hormone that sends the signal to adrenal glands for the production of aldosterone. This is called aldosterone- renin ratio test.
Also Read: Iron Test
What is aldosterone (ALD)?
ALD is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands present above the kidneys.
What is the role of aldosterone (ALD)?
- It helps in controlling blood pressure.
- It also plays a role in balancing the electrolytes (sodium & potassium). These are the minerals that help maintain the balance of body fluids by reabsorption of sodium and excretion of potassium.
- Also, it keeps nerves and muscles working properly.
What is the average value of aldosterone (ALD)?
The units of measurement are ng/dl.
The average range of aldosterone level in a healthy individual should be less than 15 ng/dl.
The range of aldosterone-renin ratio ranges between 0.7 and 3.3 ng/ml/hr.
Why is it done?
It helps in ruling out the following conditions:
- Aldosteronism, primary or secondary – leading to high ALD
- Adrenal insufficiency – leading to low ALD
- Adrenal tumours
- The cause of high blood pressure
Why do I need to get it done?
If you’re having any of the following symptoms, you should get your ALD level checked:
Symptoms of high ALD include:
- Weakness
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Tingling sensation
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Temporary paralysis
Symptoms of low ALD include:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased body hair
- Hyperpigmented patches
What does high serum aldosterone (ALD) indicate?
If your aldosterone level in the blood is high, it indicates:
Primary aldosteronism: Also known as Conn syndrome. This condition is represented by too much ALD in the blood due to a tumour or any other issue within the adrenal gland.
Secondary aldosteronism: This condition is associated with any other underlying health condition that causes the adrenal gland to make a high amount of ALD. These conditions can be any disorder of the heart, kidney, or liver.
Preeclampsia: It is a condition that causes high blood pressure in women during pregnancy.
Barter syndrome: It is a congenital defect that affects the kidney’s function to absorb sodium.
What does low serum aldosterone (ALD) indicate?
If your blood ALD levels are lower than normal, it indicates:
Primary adrenal insufficiency: Also known as Addison disease. This condition is represented by low ALD in the blood due to any damage or disorder of the adrenal gland.
Secondary adrenal insufficiency: This condition is associated with any issue with the pituitary gland. It is a gland present in the base of the brain and makes hormones that help the adrenal gland work properly. If these hormones are not enough, the production of ALD will also be less.
