Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding . Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding. Women may need to specify the phase of their menstrual cycle because it affects the test results. The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. Afterward, there may be some throbbing .
Aldosterone is a hormone released by the adrenal glands .
It is part of the complex mechanism used by the body to regulate blood pressure . Aldosterone increases the reabsorption of sodium and the excretion of potassium in the distal tubules of the kidneys. The reabsorption of sodium is accompanied by the reabsorption of water, which raises blood pressure. Drugs that can increase aldosterone measurements include diazoxide, hydralazine, and nitroprusside. Drugs that can decrease aldosterone measurements include fludrocortisone and propranolol .