Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone, a type of hormone that is essential to life because it regulates the amounts of electrolytes in the body. Aldosterone is secreted by the adrenal cortex and responsible for the reabsorption of sodium into the bloodstream. Aldosterone also stimulates the excretion of potassium.

The adrenal cortex, where aldosterone is produced, is part of the adrenal gland. Aldosterone simultaneously regulates sodium and potassium levels, helping to maintain both blood pressure and bodily fluids. If aldosterone levels in the body are out of sync, symptoms can result.

High levels of aldosterone can cause high blood pressure, muscle cramps and weakness. Low levels may indicate disease, such as diabetes. Often, aldosterone levels vary between the sexes and may be affected by the amount of sodium in a person’s diet. Women often have significantly higher levels of aldosterone when pregnant.

The hormone renin, which is produced by the kidney, helps to regulate the release of aldosterone, and renin levels are often compared with aldosterone levels for diagnostic purposes. An aldosterone test may be performed to determine the cause of high or low blood potassium or of certain conditions, such as heart failure or kidney disease.

Most often, aldosterone levels are determined through a blood test. A urine test may be ordered as an alternative test, though it is uncommon. People who undergo an aldosterone test may be asked to stop taking certain medications that could affect the test results, including certain hormone supplements and some medications that control high blood pressure. A patient may also be required to eat a specific diet for the two-week period before the test.

Normal laboratory values may vary slightly, and the accuracy of test results may depend on proper preparation as advised by your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results of the test and explain the values of your aldosterone levels during a follow-up appointment.