Complications

Primary aldosteronism can lead to high blood pressure and low potassium levels. These complications in turn can lead to other problems.

Problems related to high blood pressure

Persistently elevated blood pressure can lead to problems with your heart and kidneys, including:

• Heart attack, heart failure and other heart problems
• Stroke
• Kidney disease or kidney failure

People with primary aldosteronism have a higher than expected risk of cardiovascular problems compared with people who only have high blood pressure.

Problems related to low potassium levels (hypokalemia)

Primary aldosteronism may cause low potassium levels. If your potassium levels are just slightly low, you may not have any symptoms. Very low levels of potassium can lead to:

• Weakness
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Muscle cramps
• Excess thirst or urination