Conn’s Syndrome 

This month we are talking about primary aldosteronism or Conn’s syndrome. 

Conn’s Syndrome is a rare health problem that occurs when the adrenal glands make too much aldosterone. The adrenal glands are two small triangular glands, one on top of each kidney. Aldosterone is a hormone that controls sodium and potassium levels in the blood.  Too much aldosterone leads to high blood pressure.  

Currently, only 1 out of 100 cases of high blood pressure are caused by Conn’s syndrome.  It occurs more frequently in females, and can happen at any age, but is more frequently seen in people that are in their 30’s and 40’s. Primary aldosteronism usually manifests with high blood pressure and low potassium levels in the blood.  

The condition is treated with medications and lifestyle changes to manage blood pressure and, in some cases, surgery.  Left unchecked, high blood pressure raises your risk for complications including heart attack and stroke, while low potassium can cause heart rhythm irregularities. 

Who is likely to have primary aldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome)? 

Anyone can develop primary aldosteronism. But it’s more likely to be present if you have: 

• Low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia). 

• High blood pressure starting before age 30. 

• High blood pressure requiring three or more medications to manage. 

• An adrenal mass. 

Symptoms and Causes 

What causes Conn’s syndrome? 

Primary aldosteronism results from overproduction of aldosterone by the adrenal glands themselves. This hormone helps regulate the body’s balance of water and sodium (salt), blood volume and blood pressure. 

In some cases, primary aldosteronism results from benign, or noncancerous, tumors in one or both adrenal glands. 

Rarely, primary aldosteronism occurs because of an inherited disorder. In extremely rare cases, cancerous tumors in one or both adrenal glands cause primary aldosteronism. 

What are the symptoms of Conn’s syndrome? 

Primary aldosteronism generally causes high blood pressure with low potassium. 

Other symptoms may include: 

• Excessive thirst. 

• Fatigue. 

• Frequent urination. 

• Headache. 

• Muscle cramps. 

• Visual disturbances. 

• Weakness or tingling. 

Diagnosis and Tests

How is Conn’s syndrome diagnosed? 

Doctors diagnose primary aldosteronism by measuring the levels of hormones like aldosterone and renin along with electrolytes, including sodium and potassium in patients with high blood pressure. Electrolytes are minerals that help balance the amount of water in your body. 

At Palmetto Endocrinology we may recommend further testing to rule out adrenal gland tumors. These may include: 

• Computerized tomography (CT) scan, which uses X-rays to create pictures of internal body structures. 

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using radio waves and high-powered magnets to visualize the inside of your body. 

How is Conn’s syndrome treated? 

If the extra aldosterone is produced by both adrenal glands, it is usually treated with medications. If it is produced by one adrenal gland, removing that gland is an alternative to those medications. 

We may also recommend lifestyle changes, including: 

• Frequent exercise. 

• Limiting alcohol intake. 

• Reducing sodium in your diet. 

• Stopping smoking. 

What complications are associated with Conn’s syndrome? 

If you don’t treat primary aldosteronism your blood pressure may increase to dangerous levels. It also disrupts the balance of electrolytes in the body. Electrolyte imbalances and prolonged high blood pressure increase your risk for serious complications, including: 

• Heart attack or heart failure. 

• Irregular heartbeat. 

• Kidney failure. 

• Stroke. 

• Temporary paralysis, or the inability to move. 

Prevention and Outlook 

Currently there is no way to prevent primary aldosteronism. Monitoring your blood pressure frequently can help spot problems. If you have any concerns, please make an appointment with us at Palmetto Endocrinology today. 

Author

Joseph Mathews, MD, FACP, FACE, ECNU, CCD Joseph W. Mathews M.D., a board certified Endocrinologist and Medical Director of Palmetto Endocrinology, was born and raised in South Carolina. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston, Cum Laude. He then achieved his M.D. at the Medical University of South Carolina where he also completed his residency in Internal Medicine and a Fellowship in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism. Dr. Mathews is also a Fellow of both the American College of Endocrinology and the American College of Physicians, holds an Endocrine Certification in Neck Ultrasound (ECNU) and is a Certified Clinical Densitometrist (CCD). He has extensive experience performing ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration biopsies. His practice includes a range of specializations including prescribing and fitting patients with insulin pumps. Dr. Mathews' practice has drawn patients from out of state to benefit from his expertise in thyroid disorders, diabetes, cortisol problems and their Endocrine disorders.