Ruths Extra Aldosterone

1
Ruths Extra Aldosterone

• Presented by
• Robynne Knight
• Colbie Van Eynde
• Patricia Hildebrandt
• Tina Kahler

2
The Problem

• Ruth, a 45 year old housewife, is evaluated by
  her doctor for complaints of weight gain and
  extreme weakness. Her last visit to the doctor
  was 5 years ago, at which time her doctor found
  mild hypertension and recommended a low-sodium
  diet. The following laboratory test results were
  obtained

3
Plasma Levels
Urine tests conducted all returned normal levels.
4
Sodium Levels

• Kidneys are functioning properly, which means
  sodium is being reabsorbed into the body and not
  remaining in the blood.
• This leads to normal levels in the plasma

5
Aldosterone Hypersecretion

• Immediate effects
• Weight Gain
• Fatigue/ Tired
• Excess Urination
• Headache
• High Blood Pressure
• Aldosterone Hypersecretion is also known as
  Conns Syndrome.

6
HCO3 and Potassium

• Aldosterone stimulates potassium excretion from
  the kidneys, and sodium retention by the body.
  Additional sodium causes the body to have an
  increased need for potassium.
• Potassium is responsible for making pH more
  alkaline. Having a low level of potassium causes
  the raise in pH.

7
How does this tie together?

• Potassium is related to muscle fatigue. Low
  Potassium is aka hypokalemia, which is when
  excitable tissues in muscles and nerves slow and
  alter their functions. Additional intake of
  potassium can help.
• Weight gain is caused by excess sodium retention
  and total gain of water weight.

8
How to help Ruth

• Removal of tumor
• Post surgery treatment may include
• Medication to block aldosterone
• Diet low in Salt