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Aldosterone

Aldosterone is a vital hormone that is produced in your dog's adrenal cortex. It plays a crucial role in regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure. In this article you will learn more about the functions of aldosterone and how disruptions in its production can affect your dog's health.

What is aldosterone?

Aldosterone belongs to the class of steroid hormones and is part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which regulates blood pressure and the volume of body fluids.

Functions of aldosterone

  • Regulation of the sodium and potassium balance: Aldosterone promotes the reabsorption of sodium from the renal tubules back into the blood, while also promoting the excretion of potassium. This helps to maintain the balance of these vital electrolytes.
  • Water retention: By increasing sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, aldosterone also leads to increased water retention, which affects blood volume and blood pressure.

Health effects of an aldosterone disorder

Disorders in the production of aldosterone can cause serious health problems for your dog, including the following two main conditions:

Hyperaldosteronism

  • Definition and causes: Hyperaldosteronism occurs when too much aldosterone is produced, often due to a tumor in the adrenal glands.
  • Symptoms: Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, weakness, and in some cases, neurological symptoms due to decreased potassium levels.
  • Treatment: Treatment may include surgical removal of the tumor or medications that block the production of aldosterone.

Hypoaldosteronism

  • Definition and causes: Hypoaldosteronism is less common and occurs when too little aldosterone is produced, often due to damage or disease of the adrenal glands.
  • Symptoms: Symptoms include weakness, dehydration, low blood pressure and hyperkalemia (too much potassium in the blood).
  • Treatment: This condition is often treated with lifelong hormone replacement therapy.

Prevention and management

Important measures

  • Regular veterinary visits: Regular examinations help to detect early signs of adrenal dysfunction.
  • Balanced diet: A diet that supports electrolyte balance can help stabilize adrenal function.
  • Awareness and early detection: Awareness of the symptoms of aldosterone disorders can enable early and effective treatment.

By better understanding the role of aldosterone, you can help support your dog's wellbeing and health.

Learn even more about Aldosterone

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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