📌 What is the Aldosterone Test?
A blood test that measures aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Aldosterone plays a key role in regulating blood pressure, sodium, and potassium levels.
📊 Normal Ranges (varies by lab and posture)
✔ Lying Down: 3 - 16 ng/dL
✔ Standing Up: 7 - 30 ng/dL
🚨 High Aldosterone Levels May Indicate:
🔺 Primary aldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome) – adrenal gland disorder causing high blood pressure
🔺 Heart failure, kidney disease, or cirrhosis – leading to fluid retention
🔺 Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)
📉 Low Aldosterone Levels May Indicate:
🔻 Adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease)
🔻 Low sodium intake or chronic illness
🔻 Renin deficiency (affecting blood pressure regulation)
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Diagnoses primary aldosteronism, a cause of resistant hypertension
✅ Evaluates adrenal gland function and hormone imbalances
✅ Helps detect electrolyte disorders (low potassium, high sodium)
✅ Assists in diagnosing adrenal tumors or hyperplasia
💡 Key Facts
🔹 Aldosterone controls salt and water balance, impacting blood pressure
🔹 Paired with Renin testing for a complete evaluation of adrenal function
🔹 High-sodium diets, medications, and posture can affect test results
🔹 Fasting & avoiding certain medications (diuretics, beta-blockers) may be required before testing