8. Heart Palpitations – The Unsettling Flutter
Heart palpitations are a symptom that can cause a great deal of alarm, characterized by the feeling that the heart is racing, skipping beats, or fluttering. In hyperaldosteronism, this unsettling sensation is often a consequence of the body’s electrolyte imbalance, particularly the deficit of potassium which is vital for proper heart function.
As aldosterone prompts the kidneys to excrete potassium, the heart muscle can become sensitive and more prone to irregular rhythms. These palpitations are not merely a source of discomfort but a sign that the heart may be under strain. They underscore the need to investigate further, to look beyond the heart itself and consider the hormonal interplay that might be at play.
Palpitations can disrupt daily activities and lead to anxiety about one’s health. However, understanding that they could be linked to aldosterone overproduction provides a tangible route to potentially solving the issue. Restoring potassium levels and controlling aldosterone can help to stabilize the heart’s rhythm, offering relief from this disconcerting symptom. (8)
