Primary hyperaldosteronism used to be considered a rare condition, but some experts believe that it may be the cause of high blood pressure in 0.5% to 14% of patients. Most cases of primary hyperaldosteronism result from a benign tumor of the adrenal gland, and occur in people between the ages of 30 and 50 years old. The excess aldosterone secreted in this condition increases sodium reabsorption and potassium loss by the kidneys. The result is an electrolyte imbalance. Secondary hyperaldosteronism is generally related to hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also related to disorders such as cardiac failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and nephrotic (kidney) syndrome. In these disorders, various mechanisms from the individual disease cause the level of the hormone to be elevated.
| 
