Hyperaldosteronism is a disease caused by an excess production of the normal adrenal hormone, aldosterone. This hormone is responsible for sodium and potassium balance, which then directly controls water balance to maintain appropriate blood pressure and blood volume. People with a deficiency of aldosterone, especially found in association with cortisol deficiency in Addison's disease, have low blood volume and therefore low blood pressure, low sodium and high potassium. Just the opposite is seen in hyperaldosteronism.
Hyperaldosteronism causes high blood pressure and a low serum potassium.
The serum sodium is usually in the normal range. This is a rare disease and is an unusual cause of hypertension. It is usually considered by physicians if they find an unexpectedly low potassium in a person being treated for hypertension. It generally causes no other specific symptoms or signs. The physical examination in people with hyperaldosteronism is totally normal.