About all

Hypotestosteronism symptoms: Low Testosterone: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Low Testosterone (Low T): Symptoms, Causes, and More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Males may experience low testosterone as they get older or due to some health conditions. Symptoms can be subtle, but treatment may help if the symptoms affect your lifestyle.

Alternative names for low testosterone

People may also refer to low testosterone as:

  • low T
  • male menopause
  • andropause
  • testosterone deficiency

Was this helpful?

Testosterone is a hormone that can affect appearance and sexual development, stimulate sperm production and sex drive, and help build muscle and bone mass. It is typically produced by the testicles in people assigned male at birth.

Who can have low testosterone?

While people assigned male at both and people assigned female at birth produce testosterone, this article focuses on symptoms of low testosterone in people who were assigned male at birth. Research suggests that some doctors may prescribe testosterone off-label to females to improve libido, but this use has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Though sex and gender exist on a spectrum, the studies and surveys below used the terms “male” and “men” and did not report data on, or include, participants who were transgender, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, genderqueer, agender, or genderless.

To maintain the specificity and accuracy of the research, this article will use the terms “male” and “men” throughout.

Was this helpful?

Testosterone production typically decreases with age. According to the American Urological Association, about 40% of males ages 45 and older have low testosterone.

If your testosterone production drastically drops, you may experience a range of symptoms. Signs of low testosterone are often subtle and can include:

Low sex drive

Testosterone plays a key role in your sex drive or libido. Some people may experience a decline in sex drive as they get older, but those with low testosterone will likely experience a more drastic drop.

Difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection

Testosterone aids in achieving and maintaining an erection. It tells brain receptors to produce nitric oxide, which is a molecule that helps trigger a series of chemical reactions to produce an erection.

With low T, you may have difficulty achieving an erection before sex or having spontaneous erections, such as during sleep.

However, research is inconclusive on whether testosterone replacement therapy can successfully treat erectile dysfunction. A 2016 review of studies looked at this therapy in males with erection difficulties and nearly half showed no improvement.

Other health conditions can cause erectile difficulties. These include:

  • diabetes
  • thyroid disorders
  • high blood pressure
  • high cholesterol
  • depression
  • stress
  • anxiety

Smoking and alcohol use can also contribute.

Hot flashes

Hot flashes can be a sign of low testosterone. This can feel like a sudden sensation of warmth. You may also experience:

  • heavy sweating
  • reddening of the skin
  • night sweats

Hair loss

Testosterone plays a role in hair production. Balding is a natural part of growing older for many males, and while it can be hereditary, those with low testosterone may lose body and facial hair as well.

Fatigue

Males with low testosterone may report extreme fatigue and decreased energy. You may have low T if you’re consistently tired despite getting plenty of sleep or if you find it harder to get motivated to exercise.

Decreased muscle mass

A 2016 review found that testosterone affects muscle mass but not necessarily strength or function. Males with low T may notice a decrease in muscle mass.

Increased body fat

Low testosterone levels may cause increased body fat or gynecomastia, which is enlarged breast tissue. Gynecomastia can occur when there is an imbalance of testosterone and estrogen in the body.

Decreased bone mass

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bone density. Testosterone helps produce and strengthen bone, so males with low testosterone, especially older men, may have lower bone volume and be more susceptible to bone fractures.

Mood changes

Males with low testosterone can experience mood changes. Since testosterone influences many of the body’s physical processes, it can also influence mood and mental capacity.

Memory

Both testosterone levels and cognitive functions, particularly memory, decline with age. As a result, doctors have theorized that lower testosterone levels could contribute to affected memory.

According to a 2019 review of studies, testosterone supplementation may improve memory in older men with low testosterone though the effect may be small.

However, a 2017 study on testosterone supplementation did not find memory improvements in 493 men with low testosterone levels who took testosterone or a placebo.

Smaller testicle and penis size

The body requires testosterone to develop the penis and testicles, so low testosterone levels could contribute to a disproportionately smaller penis or testicles. Other conditions and circumstances can cause a smaller penis and testicles, as well.

Low blood counts

Low testosterone may increase your risk for anemia, according to a 2017 study. When researchers administered testosterone gel to males with low testosterone and anemia, they saw improved blood counts compared to males who used a placebo. Blood counts also improved in males with known causes of anemia, like iron deficiency.

Testosterone levels naturally decrease as males get older, but other conditions or circumstances may also cause low testosterone. These may include:

  • testicle injuries
  • cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation
  • stress
  • AIDS
  • alcohol use disorder
  • kidney disease
  • cirrhosis of the liver
  • pituitary gland conditions
  • autoimmune disease
  • infection
  • obesity
  • metabolic syndrome
  • using certain medications

Testosterone levels are typically 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Low testosterone is when testosterone levels fall below 300 ng/dL. A blood test called a serum testosterone test can determine your testosterone level.

Other tests may be performed to determine the cause of low testosterone.

Tests to diagnose low testosterone and its causes include:

  • serum testosterone
  • luteinizing hormone
  • blood prolactin level

Males experience a gradual decrease in testosterone as they get older. The older you are, the more likely that you’ll have low testosterone.

A variety of factors can cause low testosterone. A doctor can check your testosterone level with a simple blood test.

If you have low testosterone and the symptoms bother you, a doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy.

If you would like to know your testosterone levels, LetsGetChecked offers male hormone tests at home at various price points.

Read this article in Spanish.

Low Testosterone (Low T): Symptoms, Causes, and More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Males may experience low testosterone as they get older or due to some health conditions. Symptoms can be subtle, but treatment may help if the symptoms affect your lifestyle.

Alternative names for low testosterone

People may also refer to low testosterone as:

  • low T
  • male menopause
  • andropause
  • testosterone deficiency

Was this helpful?

Testosterone is a hormone that can affect appearance and sexual development, stimulate sperm production and sex drive, and help build muscle and bone mass. It is typically produced by the testicles in people assigned male at birth.

Who can have low testosterone?

While people assigned male at both and people assigned female at birth produce testosterone, this article focuses on symptoms of low testosterone in people who were assigned male at birth. Research suggests that some doctors may prescribe testosterone off-label to females to improve libido, but this use has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Though sex and gender exist on a spectrum, the studies and surveys below used the terms “male” and “men” and did not report data on, or include, participants who were transgender, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, genderqueer, agender, or genderless.

To maintain the specificity and accuracy of the research, this article will use the terms “male” and “men” throughout.

Was this helpful?

Testosterone production typically decreases with age. According to the American Urological Association, about 40% of males ages 45 and older have low testosterone.

If your testosterone production drastically drops, you may experience a range of symptoms. Signs of low testosterone are often subtle and can include:

Low sex drive

Testosterone plays a key role in your sex drive or libido. Some people may experience a decline in sex drive as they get older, but those with low testosterone will likely experience a more drastic drop.

Difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection

Testosterone aids in achieving and maintaining an erection. It tells brain receptors to produce nitric oxide, which is a molecule that helps trigger a series of chemical reactions to produce an erection.

With low T, you may have difficulty achieving an erection before sex or having spontaneous erections, such as during sleep.

However, research is inconclusive on whether testosterone replacement therapy can successfully treat erectile dysfunction. A 2016 review of studies looked at this therapy in males with erection difficulties and nearly half showed no improvement.

Other health conditions can cause erectile difficulties. These include:

  • diabetes
  • thyroid disorders
  • high blood pressure
  • high cholesterol
  • depression
  • stress
  • anxiety

Smoking and alcohol use can also contribute.

Hot flashes

Hot flashes can be a sign of low testosterone. This can feel like a sudden sensation of warmth. You may also experience:

  • heavy sweating
  • reddening of the skin
  • night sweats

Hair loss

Testosterone plays a role in hair production. Balding is a natural part of growing older for many males, and while it can be hereditary, those with low testosterone may lose body and facial hair as well.

Fatigue

Males with low testosterone may report extreme fatigue and decreased energy. You may have low T if you’re consistently tired despite getting plenty of sleep or if you find it harder to get motivated to exercise.

Decreased muscle mass

A 2016 review found that testosterone affects muscle mass but not necessarily strength or function. Males with low T may notice a decrease in muscle mass.

Increased body fat

Low testosterone levels may cause increased body fat or gynecomastia, which is enlarged breast tissue. Gynecomastia can occur when there is an imbalance of testosterone and estrogen in the body.

Decreased bone mass

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bone density. Testosterone helps produce and strengthen bone, so males with low testosterone, especially older men, may have lower bone volume and be more susceptible to bone fractures.

Mood changes

Males with low testosterone can experience mood changes. Since testosterone influences many of the body’s physical processes, it can also influence mood and mental capacity.

Memory

Both testosterone levels and cognitive functions, particularly memory, decline with age. As a result, doctors have theorized that lower testosterone levels could contribute to affected memory.

According to a 2019 review of studies, testosterone supplementation may improve memory in older men with low testosterone though the effect may be small.

However, a 2017 study on testosterone supplementation did not find memory improvements in 493 men with low testosterone levels who took testosterone or a placebo.

Smaller testicle and penis size

The body requires testosterone to develop the penis and testicles, so low testosterone levels could contribute to a disproportionately smaller penis or testicles. Other conditions and circumstances can cause a smaller penis and testicles, as well.

Low blood counts

Low testosterone may increase your risk for anemia, according to a 2017 study. When researchers administered testosterone gel to males with low testosterone and anemia, they saw improved blood counts compared to males who used a placebo. Blood counts also improved in males with known causes of anemia, like iron deficiency.

Testosterone levels naturally decrease as males get older, but other conditions or circumstances may also cause low testosterone. These may include:

  • testicle injuries
  • cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation
  • stress
  • AIDS
  • alcohol use disorder
  • kidney disease
  • cirrhosis of the liver
  • pituitary gland conditions
  • autoimmune disease
  • infection
  • obesity
  • metabolic syndrome
  • using certain medications

Testosterone levels are typically 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Low testosterone is when testosterone levels fall below 300 ng/dL. A blood test called a serum testosterone test can determine your testosterone level.

Other tests may be performed to determine the cause of low testosterone.

Tests to diagnose low testosterone and its causes include:

  • serum testosterone
  • luteinizing hormone
  • blood prolactin level

Males experience a gradual decrease in testosterone as they get older. The older you are, the more likely that you’ll have low testosterone.

A variety of factors can cause low testosterone. A doctor can check your testosterone level with a simple blood test.

If you have low testosterone and the symptoms bother you, a doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy.

If you would like to know your testosterone levels, LetsGetChecked offers male hormone tests at home at various price points.

Read this article in Spanish.

Hyperaldosteronism. What is Hyperaldosteronism?

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Hyperaldosteronism is a pathological condition caused by increased production of aldosterone, the main mineralocorticoid hormone of the adrenal cortex. With primary hyperaldosteronism, arterial hypertension, headaches, cardialgia and cardiac arrhythmia, blurred vision, muscle weakness, paresthesia, convulsions are observed. With secondary hyperaldosteronism, peripheral edema, chronic renal failure, changes in the fundus develop. Diagnosis of various types of hyperaldosteronism includes a biochemical analysis of blood and urine, functional stress tests, ultrasound, scintigraphy, MRI, selective venography, a study of the state of the heart, liver, kidneys and renal arteries. Treatment of hyperaldosteronism in aldosteroma, adrenal cancer, kidney reninoma is surgical, in other forms it is medication.

    ICD-10

    E26 Hyperaldosteronism

    • Causes of hyperaldosteronism
    • Pathogenesis
    • Symptoms of hyperaldosteronism
    • Diagnostics
    • Treatment of hyperaldosteronism
    • Prognosis and prevention of hyperaldosteronism
    • Prices for treatment

    General

    Hyperaldosteronism includes a whole complex of syndromes that are different in pathogenesis, but similar in clinical signs, occurring with excessive secretion of aldosterone. Hyperaldosteronism can be primary (due to the pathology of the adrenal glands themselves) and secondary (due to renin hypersecretion in other diseases). Primary hyperaldosteronism is diagnosed in 1-2% of patients with symptomatic arterial hypertension. In endocrinology, 60-70% of patients with primary hyperaldosteronism are women aged 30-50; few cases of detection of hyperaldosteronism among children are described.

    Hyperaldosteronism

    Causes of hyperaldosteronism

    Depending on the etiological factor, there are several forms of primary hyperaldosteronism, of which 60-70% of cases are Conn’s syndrome, the cause of which is aldosteroma – an aldosterone-producing adenoma of the adrenal cortex. The presence of bilateral diffuse-nodular hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex leads to the development of idiopathic hyperaldosteronism.

    There is a rare familial form of primary hyperaldosteronism with an autosomal dominant type of inheritance, caused by a defect in the 18-hydroxylase enzyme, which is out of control of the renin-angiotensin system and corrected by glucocorticoids (occurs in young patients with frequent cases of arterial hypertension in a family history). In rare cases, primary hyperaldosteronism can be caused by adrenal cancer that can produce aldosterone and deoxycorticosterone.

    Secondary hyperaldosteronism occurs as a complication of a number of diseases of the cardiovascular system, pathology of the liver and kidneys. Secondary hyperaldosteronism is observed in heart failure, malignant arterial hypertension, cirrhosis of the liver, Bartter’s syndrome, dysplasia and stenosis of the renal arteries, nephrotic syndrome, renal reninoma and renal failure.

    To increase the secretion of renin and the development of secondary hyperaldosteronism leads to sodium loss (with diet, diarrhea), a decrease in circulating blood volume during blood loss and dehydration, excessive potassium intake, long-term use of certain drugs (diuretics, COCs, laxatives). Pseudohyperaldosteronism develops when the reaction of the distal renal tubules to aldosterone is disturbed, when, despite its high level in the blood serum, hyperkalemia is observed. Extra-adrenal hyperaldosteronism is noted quite rarely, for example, in the pathology of the ovaries, thyroid gland and intestines.

    Pathogenesis

    Primary hyperaldosteronism (low-reninated) is usually associated with a tumor or hyperplastic lesion of the adrenal cortex and is characterized by a combination of increased secretion of aldosterone with hypokalemia and arterial hypertension.

    The basis of the pathogenesis of primary hyperaldosteronism is the effect of excess aldosterone on the water-electrolyte balance: an increase in the reabsorption of sodium and water ions in the renal tubules and an increased excretion of potassium ions in the urine, leading to fluid retention and hypervolemia, metabolic alkalosis, and a decrease in the production and activity of blood plasma renin. There is a violation of hemodynamics – an increase in the sensitivity of the vascular wall to the action of endogenous pressor factors and the resistance of peripheral vessels to blood flow. In primary hyperaldosteronism, a pronounced and prolonged hypokalemic syndrome leads to degenerative changes in the renal tubules (kaliepenic nephropathy) and muscles.

    Secondary (high-renin) hyperaldosteronism occurs as a compensatory response to a decrease in renal blood flow in various diseases of the kidneys, liver, and heart. Secondary hyperaldosteronism develops due to the activation of the renin-angiotensin system and increased production of renin by the cells of the juxtaglomerular apparatus of the kidneys, which provide excessive stimulation of the adrenal cortex. The pronounced electrolyte disturbances characteristic of primary hyperaldosteronism do not occur in the secondary form.

    Symptoms of hyperaldosteronism

    The clinical picture of primary hyperaldosteronism reflects water and electrolyte imbalance caused by hypersecretion of aldosterone. Due to the retention of sodium and water in patients with primary hyperaldosteronism, severe or moderate arterial hypertension, headaches, aching pains in the region of the heart (cardialgia), cardiac arrhythmias, changes in the fundus of the eye with deterioration in visual function (hypertonic angiopathy, angiosclerosis, retinopathy) occur.

    Potassium deficiency leads to fatigue, muscle weakness, paresthesia, seizures in various muscle groups, periodic pseudo-paralysis; in severe cases – to the development of myocardial dystrophy, kaliepenic nephropathy, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. With primary hyperaldosteronism in the absence of heart failure, peripheral edema is not observed.

    With secondary hyperaldosteronism, a high level of blood pressure is observed (with diastolic blood pressure> 120 mmHg), gradually leading to damage to the vascular wall and tissue ischemia, deterioration of kidney function and the development of CRF, changes in the fundus (hemorrhages, neuroretinopathy). The most common sign of secondary hyperaldosteronism is edema, hypokalemia occurs in rare cases. Secondary hyperaldosteronism can occur without arterial hypertension (for example, with Bartter’s syndrome and pseudohyperaldosteronism). Some patients have an asymptomatic course of hyperaldosteronism.

    Diagnostics

    Diagnosis involves the differentiation of various forms of hyperaldosteronism and the determination of their etiology. As part of the initial diagnosis, an analysis of the functional state of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is carried out with the determination of aldosterone and renin in the blood and urine at rest and after stress tests, potassium-sodium balance and ACTH, which regulate aldosterone secretion.

    Primary hyperaldosteronism is characterized by an increase in the level of aldosterone in the blood serum, a decrease in plasma renin activity (ARP), a high aldosterone / renin ratio, hypokalemia and hypernatremia, low relative density of urine, a significant increase in the daily excretion of potassium and aldosterone in the urine. The main diagnostic criterion for secondary hyperaldosteronism is an increased rate of ARP (with reninoma – more than 20-30 ng / ml / h).

    In order to differentiate individual forms of hyperaldosteronism, a test with spironolactone, a test with a hypothiazide load, and a “marching” test are carried out. In order to identify the familial form of hyperaldosteronism, genomic typing is carried out by PCR. In case of hyperaldosteronism corrected by glucocorticoids, trial treatment with dexamethasone (prednisolone) is of diagnostic value, in which the manifestations of the disease are eliminated and blood pressure normalizes.

    To determine the nature of the lesion (aldosteroma, diffuse nodular hyperplasia, cancer), topical diagnostic methods are used: ultrasound of the adrenal glands, scintigraphy, CT and MRI of the adrenal glands, selective venography with simultaneous determination of the levels of aldosterone and cortisol in the blood of the adrenal veins. It is also important to establish the disease that caused the development of secondary hyperaldosteronism using studies of the state of the heart, liver, kidneys and renal arteries (EchoCG, ECG, ultrasound of the liver, ultrasound of the kidneys, ultrasound and duplex scanning of the renal arteries, multislice CT, MR angiography).

    Treatment of hyperaldosteronism

    The choice of method and tactics for the treatment of hyperaldosteronism depends on the cause of aldosterone hypersecretion. Examination of patients is carried out by an endocrinologist, cardiologist, nephrologist, ophthalmologist. Drug treatment with potassium-sparing diuretics (spirolactone) is carried out in various forms of hyporeninemic hyperaldosteronism (hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex, aldosterone) as a preparatory stage for surgery, which helps to normalize blood pressure and eliminate hypokalemia. A low-salt diet with an increased content of potassium-rich foods in the diet, as well as the introduction of potassium preparations, is shown.

    Treatment of aldosteroma and adrenal cancer is surgical, it consists in removing the affected adrenal gland (adrenalectomy) with a preliminary restoration of water and electrolyte balance. Patients with bilateral adrenal hyperplasia are usually treated conservatively (spironolactone) in combination with ACE inhibitors, calcium channel antagonists (nifedipine). In hyperplastic forms of hyperaldosteronism, complete bilateral adrenalectomy and right-sided adrenalectomy in combination with subtotal resection of the left adrenal gland are ineffective. Hypokalemia disappears, but there is no desired hypotensive effect (BP normalizes only in 18% of cases) and there is a high risk of developing acute adrenal insufficiency.

    With hyperaldosteronism, which can be corrected by glucocorticoid therapy, hydrocortisone or dexamethasone is prescribed to eliminate hormonal and metabolic disorders and normalize blood pressure. In secondary hyperaldosteronism, combined antihypertensive therapy is carried out against the background of pathogenetic treatment of the underlying disease under the mandatory control of ECG and potassium levels in blood plasma.

    In the case of secondary hyperaldosteronism due to stenosis of the renal arteries, it is possible to perform percutaneous X-ray endovascular balloon dilatation, stenting of the affected renal artery, and open reconstructive surgery to normalize blood circulation and functioning of the kidney. When a kidney reninoma is detected, surgical treatment is indicated.

    Prognosis and prevention of hyperaldosteronism

    The prognosis of hyperaldosteronism depends on the severity of the underlying disease, the degree of damage to the cardiovascular and urinary systems, timeliness and treatment. Radical surgical treatment or adequate drug therapy provide a high probability of recovery. The prognosis for adrenal cancer is poor.

    In order to prevent hyperaldosteronism, constant dispensary observation of persons with arterial hypertension, diseases of the liver and kidneys is necessary; compliance with medical recommendations regarding the intake of medications and the nature of nutrition.

    Sources

    1. treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

      Hyperaldosteronism treatment consultation ID-CLINIC St. Petersburg

      Hyperaldosteronism treatment consultation ID-CLINIC St. Petersburg

      • Medical appointments

      • Syphilidologist
      • INFECTIONIST
      • Dermatologist
      • Therapist
      • Cardiologist
      • Oncologist
      • Endocrinologist
      • Neurologist
      • Medical certificates
      • Ultrasound diagnostics – ultrasound
      • Functional diagnostics
      • Urologist
      • Venereologist
      • Parasitologist
      • Mammologist
      • All services
      • Diagnosis

      • Gynecology
      • Dermatovenereology
      • Cardiology
      • Neurology
      • Oncology
      • Therapy
      • Urology
      • Endocrinology
      • Infectology
      • Treatment

      • A
      • B
      • B
      • G
      • D
      • E
      • Yo
      • F
      • Z
      • and
      • Y
      • K
      • L
      • M
      • H
      • O
      • P
      • R
      • C
      • T
      • W
      • F
      • X
      • C
      • H
      • W
      • SC
      • E
      • Yu
      • I

      COVID

      Full range of medical care for viral infection COVID

      CHECK-UP

      Full range of comprehensive medical diagnostics

      Tests

      take tests at affordable prices

      Drugs 9000 6

      specialized pharmacy

      Online

      specialist consultation

      DISCOUNTS

      Only profitable offers for you!

      St. Petersburg, Ivana Chernykh st., 25A

      Mon.-Sat. from 9:00 – 20:00, sun. from 10:00 – 18:00

      • home
      • Treatment
      • G
      • Hyperaldosteronism

      EXPERT ASSISTANCE

      • herpes viruses
      • human papillomavirus
      • viral hepatitis
      • mycobacteriosis
      • HIV infection
      • intrauterine, parasitic and other infectious diseases

      Hyperaldosteronism is a syndrome that occurs when the level of aldosterone in the blood increases. Normally, the hormone is produced in limited quantities by the cells of the adrenal cortex. Aldosterone is responsible for the regulation of water and electrolyte balance in the body. If its level in the blood increases, sodium and water are retained in the body, and at the same time, potassium loss increases. A person has various negative manifestations.

      Causes and types of hyperaldosteronism

      According to the mechanism of development, two forms of the disease are distinguished: primary and secondary. Primary hyperaldosteronism is caused by pathologies of the adrenal glands. This group includes aldosterone-producing tumors (Conn’s syndrome), hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex, and genetically determined disturbances in hormone synthesis. Secondary hyperaldosteronism occurs as a complication of a number of diseases of the liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.

      Pseudohyperaldosteronism

      In this disease, a person has all the classic signs of hyperaldosteronism and characteristic changes in the level of sodium in the blood, but the production of aldosterone remains at the same level. Pathology can occur with some congenital pathologies, Cushing’s syndrome, tumors of the adrenal glands. Metabolic disorders, as well as excessive consumption of licorice, can provoke the development of hyperaldosteronism.

      Primary hyperaldosteronism

      The disease is manifested by a typical clinic of arterial hypertension: headaches, flies before the eyes, pain in the heart, shortness of breath. Many patients complain of muscle weakness, fatigue, goosebumps and other discomforts. Due to potassium deficiency, severe myocardial damage, kaliepenic nephropathy, and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus occur.

      Make an appointment

      St. Petersburg, Ivan Chernykh st., 25A

      Mon-Sat 09.00-20.00, Sun 10.00-18.00

      By clicking on the “Sign up” button, you agree to the processing of personal data

      Online consultation

      Convenient way,

      at your convenience

      By clicking on the “Sign up” button, you agree to the processing of personal data

      Secondary hyperaldosteronism

      This form of the disease most often occurs in the form of treatment-resistant arterial hypertension. Gradually, hypertension leads to damage to the vessels of the kidneys, the eyeball. In contrast to primary hyperaldosteronism, patients often experience swelling of the lower extremities. Since the potassium level remains normal in most cases, there are no muscle symptoms in the secondary form of the disease.

      Medical consultation

      Since hyperaldosteronism is manifested by arterial hypertension, often the initial examination is carried out by a cardiologist. To find out the root cause of pressure problems and determine the hormonal background, the patient is referred for a consultation with an endocrinologist. The collection of anamnesis and physical examination allow a preliminary diagnosis to be made, after which an extended examination is mandatory.

      Diagnosis of hyperaldosteronism

      ● determination of aldosterone and renin levels in blood and urine
      ● biochemical blood test with determination of the amount of electrolytes
      ● pharmacological tests with spironolactone and hypothiazide for the differential diagnosis of primary and secondary forms of the disease
      ● instrumental methods of visualization of the adrenal glands: ultrasound, CT, MRI, scintigraphy
      ● study of the cardiovascular system: ultrasound of the heart, ECG

      Treatment of hyperaldosteronism

      Drug therapy of the disease includes potassium-sparing diuretics, glucocorticoids, antihypertensive drugs. The patient is advised to limit salt intake, add foods high in potassium to the menu. For tumors of the adrenal glands, the only radical method of treatment is surgery. After removal of the tumor, most patients manage to normalize blood pressure.

      Make an appointment with a doctor

      ID-Clinic doctors conduct online consultations and conduct appointments at the clinic. To make an appointment for a convenient date and time, leave a request in the feedback form on the page.

      Cost of clinic services

      Inspection

      Get service

      Appointment (examination, consultation) with a cardiologist, primary

      3000 ₽

      A02.12.002.001

      Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM)

      2200 ₽

      Appointment (examination, consultation) with an endocrinologist Ph.D. 60 min.

      3500 ₽

      А04. 28.001.001

      Ultrasound of the adrenal glands

      1000 ₽

      Online consultation with a cardiologist

      3000 ₽

      Online consultation with an endocrinologist

      3000 ₽

      Analyzes

      Get service

      060801

      Aldosterone

      599.00 RUB

      Other clinic services

      Cardiologist

      Endocrinologist

      Ultrasound of the adrenal glands

      Arterial hypertension in young people

      • TeslyaOlga Vladimirovna

        Cardiologist,
        Ultrasound doctor,
        Functional diagnostics doctor,
        Doctor of the highest category