General News

Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which regulates blood pressure. If your blood pressure is low your kidneys release an enzyme called renin to help increase it.

Why do I need this test?

If you have high blood pressure, this test will tell us if it is caused by your adrenal glands.

What should I know?

Don’t eat liquorice the week of your test.
Stop taking Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication 2 weeks before the test.
Chat to your doctor about your current medications- they may advise you to stop taking some blood pressure medications at least 4 weeks before.

Taking the test

Don’t rush - our blood sample should be taken in the morning, at least 2 hours after you have woken up. You are allowed to eat before your test too, so you’ll be able to miss the morning rush.
You may be asked to sit for 5-15 minutes before your blood test, and we may also check your potassium levels.

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