Causes of Endocrine Hypertension
Primary Hyperaldosteronism (Conn’s Syndrome)
- Excess aldosterone from adrenal glands leads to sodium retention, potassium loss, and high blood pressure.
Pheochromocytoma & Paraganglioma
- Tumors in the adrenal gland (pheochromocytoma) or extra-adrenal sites (paraganglioma) produce excessive catecholamines (adrenaline & noradrenaline), causing severe hypertension.
Cushing’s Syndrome
- Excess cortisol from adrenal glands leads to sodium retention, insulin resistance, and high blood pressure.
Thyroid Disorders
- Hyperthyroidism: Excess thyroid hormones increase heart rate and blood pressure.
- Hypothyroidism: Reduced thyroid hormone levels cause stiff arteries, leading to hypertension.
Acromegaly (Growth Hormone Excess)
- Overproduction of growth hormone increases blood pressure by affecting vascular resistance.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
- Enzyme defects cause hormone imbalances, leading to hypertension in some cases.
Hyperparathyroidism
- Excess parathyroid hormone (PTH) increases calcium levels, contributing to high blood pressure.
Symptoms of Endocrine Hypertension
- Severe or resistant hypertension (not responding to standard treatment)
- Sudden onset of high blood pressure at a young age
- Episodes of palpitations, sweating, and headaches (pheochromocytoma)
- Unexplained weight gain, muscle weakness, or excessive thirst
Diagnosis and Tests
- Blood Tests: Measure hormone levels (aldosterone, cortisol, catecholamines, renin, thyroid hormones).
- Imaging: CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to detect adrenal or pituitary tumors.
- Dexamethasone Suppression Test: Checks for excess cortisol production.
- Plasma Metanephrines: Detects pheochromocytoma.
Treatment
- Medications: Target specific hormone imbalances (e.g., aldosterone antagonists, beta-blockers).
- Surgery: Tumor removal (pheochromocytoma, adrenal adenoma).
- Lifestyle Modifications: Low-sodium diet, weight management, regular exercise.
If you suspect endocrine hypertension, consult an endocrinologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Let me know if you need more details!
