Conn's syndrome is a fairly rare disease that is associated with excessive production of aldosterone in the adrenal glands. As a result of an increase in the level of this hormone, disturbances in the work of the circulatory, excretory, muscle and nervous systems are observed.
The disease was first described back in 1955. At that time, the famous physician Conn was investigating an unknown disease, which was accompanied by persistent hypertension and a decrease in blood levels of potassium. Later, such cases have been described by doctors more than once. The disease was named after the first researcher - thus, the section "Cohn's Syndrome" appeared in the directories.
By the way, to date, active research is still ongoing on this disease, as well as the search for optimal methods of treatment and prevention.
Conn's disease and its causes
Unfortunately, the causes of the development of such a disease can not always be determined. However, the most common adrenal gland disruption is associated with glomerular adenoma of these organs. As a rule, these formations are benign, therefore easier to treat. It is worth noting that the syndrome is much more often diagnosed among young people, especially among women.
The formation and growth of the tumor is accompanied by increased synthesis of aldosterone. Such a violation affects the state of the whole organism. First, mineral metabolism is disturbed , as a result of which increased absorption of sodium and simultaneous excretion of potassium occur in the renal tubules. A decrease in the amount of potassium in the body negatively affects the condition of the kidneys and the circulatory system.
Conn's syndrome: symptoms of the disease
Today, doctors distinguish three groups of main symptoms, which are manifested by the renal, circulatory and muscle systems.
The most obvious sign of the disease is high blood pressure, with which the usual remedies for hypertension can not cope. A persistent increase in pressure causes a lot of related problems. Patients complain of dizziness and headaches, weakness, nausea, and vomiting. Sometimes an attack of tetany or the development of flaccid paralysis can be observed. Heart pain, regular asthma attacks, shortness of breath even at the slightest physical exertion are also possible. In the most severe cases, coronary or ventricular failure develops. Sometimes left ventricular hypertrophy develops .
Increased pressure also affects the state of the visual analyzer - the fundus changes, there is swelling of the optic nerve, and a decrease in visual acuity (up to complete blindness).
Conn's syndrome, as a rule, is accompanied by an increase in the daily amount of urine excreted - sometimes this figure is 10 liters.
Conn's syndrome: diagnosis and treatment
If you have such problems with well-being, it is best to immediately seek medical help. Diagnosis of the disease is a long process. Typically, the patient should be tested for urine and blood. The doctor also checks the level of potassium and aldosterone in the blood, is used in the diagnosis and computed tomography.
To date, the only treatment is surgery. During the operation, either the benign tumor itself or part of the adrenal cortex is removed.
In any case, after the operation, the patient should carefully monitor the diet, adhere to a healthy lifestyle and regularly undergo preventive examinations.