Hyperaldosteronism

Hyperaldosteronism is a medical condition in which too much aldosterone is produced, the hormone that is normally made in the adrenal glands. High aldosterone levels can lead to lowered levels of potassium in the blood, called hypokalemia, and to increased excretion of hydrogen ions, called alkalosis. Two broad forms are distinguished. Primary aldosteronism is the form in which the adrenal glands themselves are too active and produce excess amounts of aldosterone, while secondary aldosteronism is the form in which another abnormality causes the excess production of aldosterone.