Which assessment finding is consistent with a diagnosis of hyperaldosteronism?

Which assessment finding is consistent with a diagnosis of hyperaldosteronism?

• A. Headache
• B. Dehydration
• C. Muscle weakness
• D. All of the above

Answer: (C)

Excess aldosterone drives the kidneys to reabsorb sodium and water while increasing potassium loss. The resulting hypokalemia commonly presents as muscle weakness, fatigue, and cramps because low potassium impairs muscle cell excitability and neuromuscular transmission. While hypertension from volume expansion can cause headaches, and dehydration is not typical since there is usually expanded extracellular fluid, the most characteristic assessment finding tied directly to hyperaldosteronism is the weakness from low potassium.

Excess aldosterone drives the kidneys to reabsorb sodium and water while increasing potassium loss. The resulting hypokalemia commonly presents as muscle weakness, fatigue, and cramps because low potassium impairs muscle cell excitability and neuromuscular transmission. While hypertension from volume expansion can cause headaches, and dehydration is not typical since there is usually expanded extracellular fluid, the most characteristic assessment finding tied directly to hyperaldosteronism is the weakness from low potassium.