Conn’s syndrome, also known as primary hyperaldosteronism, is a medical condition that affects the adrenal glands. These small glands, located above the kidneys, produce a hormone called aldosterone, which helps regulate blood pressure. In Conn’s syndrome, the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure and other health issues. In this blog, we’ll break down Conn’s syndrome, discussing its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Causes of Conn’s Syndrome
The most common cause of Conn’s syndrome is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor called an adenoma, which forms on one or both of the adrenal glands. This tumor causes the gland to produce excessive amounts of aldosterone. In some cases, Conn’s syndrome can also be caused by hyperplasia, a condition where both adrenal glands become enlarged and overproduce aldosterone. The exact reason for the development of adenomas or hyperplasia is still unknown, but genetic factors and lifestyle choices may play a role.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of Conn’s syndrome is high blood pressure (hypertension), which can lead to various health problems if left untreated. Other symptoms may include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent headaches
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Low levels of potassium in the blood (hypokalemia)
It’s important to note that some people with Conn’s syndrome may not experience any noticeable symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose the condition.
Diagnosis of Conn’s Syndrome
If a doctor suspects Conn’s syndrome, they will typically start by conducting blood and urine tests to measure aldosterone and potassium levels. If these tests indicate high aldosterone levels and low potassium levels, further testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis. This can include imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, to visualize the adrenal glands and check for tumors or hyperplasia. In some cases, a specialized test called adrenal vein sampling may be performed to determine which adrenal gland is causing the problem.
Treatment Options
The treatment for Conn’s syndrome depends on the underlying cause. If an adenoma is responsible for the condition, surgery to remove the tumor is usually the most effective treatment. This procedure can often cure Conn’s syndrome and resolve high blood pressure.
If both adrenal glands are affected by hyperplasia, surgery may not be the best option. Instead, doctors may prescribe medications called aldosterone antagonists, which help block the effects of aldosterone on the body. These medications can help control blood pressure and alleviate other symptoms of Conn’s syndrome.
In some cases, lifestyle changes, such as adopting a low-sodium diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help manage blood pressure and improve overall health.
Advocate For Yourself
Conn’s syndrome is a treatable condition that, if left undiagnosed, can lead to serious health complications. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for preventing long-term damage. But unfortunately, many people experience difficulty getting evaluated for Conn’s Syndrome because doctors are often unlikely to order tests for it. This can be due to the rarity of the condition, lack of awareness, or the fact that its symptoms can be similar to other more common health issues.
As a result, individuals who may have Conn’s Syndrome might face challenges in receiving a timely and accurate diagnosis. This is why we have partnered with The Carling Adrenal Center to help people who may be suffering from this condition advocate for themselves with direct access testing. Any Lab Test Now offers an Adrenal Insight Panel that consists of two tests that can help your healthcare provider diagnose or rule out Conn’s syndrome. This panel determines your potassium level and if your aldosterone level is out of balance. If your test results are indicative of a possible Conn’s Syndrome diagnosis, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
If you are someone who struggles with high blood pressure, even while taking medication to control it, and also experience symptoms like headaches, fatigue, frequent urination, and muscle cramps or weakness, the Adrenal Insight Panel may be right for you.
