Which statement best describes aldosterone’s primary effect in primary hyperaldosteronism?

Which statement best describes aldosterone’s primary effect in primary hyperaldosteronism?

• A. It increases sodium reabsorption leading to hypertension
• B. It decreases sodium reabsorption
• C. It increases potassium excretion without affecting blood pressure
• D. It has no effect on electrolyte balance

Answer: (A)

Aldosterone’s main action is to conserve sodium in the distal nephron, which expands extracellular fluid and raises blood pressure. In primary hyperaldosteronism, excess aldosterone drives sustained Na+ reabsorption in the distal tubule and collecting duct, leading to volume expansion and hypertension. This same hormone also increases potassium (and hydrogen) ion secretion, contributing to hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis, but the clinical hallmark described here is the Na+ retention that raises blood pressure. Therefore, the statement that best describes aldosterone’s primary effect is increased sodium reabsorption leading to hypertension.

Aldosterone’s main action is to conserve sodium in the distal nephron, which expands extracellular fluid and raises blood pressure. In primary hyperaldosteronism, excess aldosterone drives sustained Na+ reabsorption in the distal tubule and collecting duct, leading to volume expansion and hypertension. This same hormone also increases potassium (and hydrogen) ion secretion, contributing to hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis, but the clinical hallmark described here is the Na+ retention that raises blood pressure. Therefore, the statement that best describes aldosterone’s primary effect is increased sodium reabsorption leading to hypertension.