What is Conn Syndrome?

Conn Syndrome is a disease of the adrenal glands. It can take two forms. In the first form, there is a tumor (usually benign) called an adenoma on one of the glands. In the second form, both adrenal glands are enlarged. The cause of Conn Syndrome is unknown although there appears to be a hereditary component. The adenoma or enlargement of the glands results in the production of too much aldosterone.

The primary symptom of Conn syndrome is hypertension (high blood pressure.) Hypertension caused by Conn syndrome is not usually responsive to typical high blood pressure medications and other treatments. Other symptoms include excessive tiredness, muscle weakness, and frequent urination, especially at night. It was once thought that Conn Syndrome was a rare disease. Recently though there has been an increase in testing of those with high blood pressure, and it is now believed that Conn Syndrome may be a more common cause of hypertension than previously thought.

It is important that everyone with high blood pressure get tested for Conn Syndrome. The standard method of testing is a carefully controlled blood test. Patients are typically asked to restrict their salt intake for 24 hours supplementing with carefully controlled doses of sodium in pill form. The test is then performed in the morning after the patient lies down for thirty minutes. Because the test requires carefully controlled conditions, and the results must be interpreted by a specialist in endocrinology, many physicians are reluctant to refer all high blood pressure patients for testing.

If you have hypertension, it is important that you request this testing. Conn Syndrome is treatable. If you have an adenoma, the tumor can be removed. Patients who have the tumor removed typically revert to a normal blood pressure and lead normal lives. Enlarged adrenal glands can be treated with medications. Patients who use long term drug therapy to control their Conn Syndrome usually lead normal lives also with the exception of regular follow up care. A few individuals may have allergies or negative side effects from the medication. In those cases, there are alternate therapies available.

If you have high blood pressure or if you have a history of adrenal gland problems in your family ask your doctor about testing for Conn Syndrome. If you test positive for Conn Syndrome, you will be able to get the treatment that you need to keep your hypertension under control.