Aldosterone test
Aldosterone test maesures the level of aldosterone hormone in the blood. Aldosterone performs the task of maintaining optimal levels of sodium and potassium in the blood by maintaining water balance and blood volume. Elevated levels of aldosterone are indicative of aldosteronism or hyperaldosteronism. The presence of a tumor may bring about high levels of aldosterone. Low levels of aldosterone may suggest diabetes or Addison's disease. Pregnant women may notice high values of aldosterone in the blood. Medications such as corticosteroids, diuretics, female hormones and hypertension drugs can affect the results of aldosterone test. Even the body posture can affect aldosterone levels in the blood. The amount of salt consumed can cause changes in blood aldosterone levels. Aldosterone test is conducted to study any possible overactivity of adrenal glands. Aldosterone test is conducted on a blood sample or 24 hour urine sample. Normal aldosterone range for urine is 2-80 mg/24 hr. Typical blood aldosterone range is 3-10 ng/dL when the patient is in supine position and 5 - 20 ng/dL when sitting upright.
MSG
MSG or Monosodium glutamate is a natural sodium salt of glutamic acid. MSG is commonly used in food preservation and enhancement. Commercially monosodium glutamate is prepared by fermenting starch, sugarcane or molasses. MSG is used extensively in Asian cuisine, especially Japanese and Chinese cooking. People are known to have reactions to MSG ranging from migraine and stomach upset to heart irregularities and mood swings and asthma.
Angiotensin Receptor Blocker
Angiotensin II, produced within the body, tends to narrow your blood vessels thereby increasing blood pressure. It also leads to a subsequent increase in the amount of water and sodium in the body. Over time, the walls of the heart and blood vessels thicken.
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are druges that block the action of the angiotensin II. These ARBs widen the blood vessels and reduce the water retained within the body. The action of the angiotensin II receptor blockers is similar to that of the ACE inhibitors. They are prescribed for persons suffering high blood pressure. ARBs are also prescribed for chronic kidney disease and heart failure. But they might lead to side-effects such as dizziness and headache and pain in the legs and back. Women who are pregnant or planning to have a baby must avoid ARBs as they can cause birth defects.
Bibliography / Reference
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