Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. An aldosterone test measures the level of aldosterone (a hormone made by the adrenal glands), in the blood. Aldosterone helps regulate sodium and potassium levels in the body. This helps control blood pressure and the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the blood. The kidney hormone renin normally stimulates the adrenal glands to release aldosterone. High levels of both renin and aldosterone are normally present when the body is trying to conserve fluid and salt (sodium). When a tumor that makes aldosterone is present, your aldosterone level will be high while a renin level will be low. Usually a renin activity test is done when the aldosterone level is measured. An aldosterone test is done to: An aldosterone test is often done at the time of a routine blood test. You don't need to do anything before having routine blood tests. If you are having follow-up aldosterone blood tests, your doctor may give you the following instructions: Many medicines may change the results of this test. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the nonprescription and prescription medicines you take. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines for 2 weeks before the test. These include hormones (such as progesterone and estrogens), corticosteroids, diuretics, and many medicines used to treat high blood pressure, especially spironolactone (Aldactone), eplerenone (Inspra), and beta-blockers. The amount of aldosterone in blood changes depending on whether you are standing up or lying down. If your results show a problem, repeat tests may be done in different positions and under different conditions, such as not eating before the test or eating foods that contain a specific amount of salt. Your doctor may ask you to have your blood drawn at a certain time. That's because aldosterone levels are highest in the early morning. A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm. When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch. There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site. Results are usually available in 2 to 5 days. Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you. High aldosterone levels can be caused by: An overgrowth of normal cells in the adrenal glands (called adrenal hyperplasia) or a tumor of the adrenal glands affects the adrenal glands directly and causes a condition called primary aldosteronism. Certain diseases, such as heart failure, cirrhosis, and kidney disease, can also cause high aldosterone levels, but this is a normal response by the adrenal glands. These diseases cause secondary aldosteronism. Condition Aldosterone Renin Primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome) High Low Secondary hyperaldosteronism High High Addison's disease and some types of kidney disease may cause low aldosterone levels. Current as of: May 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: May 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Aldosterone in Blood Test
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Why It Is Done
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How It Is Done
How It Feels
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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: May 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardAldosterone in Blood Test
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.