This seems like a good discussion of Aldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome), which I suspect that I have, but have never been diagnosed. For the last three weeks I’ve had persistent right-sided flank/back pain that’s worse when lying down at night, and it is getting worst, along with my long-standing hypertension that’s been difficult to control I suspect that I might have Aldosteronism. But I was wondering if others have had a similar pain. It appears to be pressure in my retroperitoneal space along the right side of my lower back and seems to be caused by an increased fluid pressure when I lay down at night building in the lower back, flank and now the lower abdomen on the right side. I must sleep upright, as I can’t sleep laying down because the pain builds up. I have no signs of kidney failure, nor trouble urinating, and the pain is not as intense to suggest kidney stones. I’m going to see a doctor tomorrow, but a couple years ago I investigated it because of my hypertension. My ARR and potassium levels were normal about two years when I last checked. I’ve been put on six different hypertension medicines (Lisinopril (ACE inhibitor), Losartan (ARB), Metoprolol (beta blocker), Terazosin, Hydrochlorothiazide (high dose), Amlodipine and none of them so far have controlled or even lowered my blood pressure, which often around 130–150 / 90–110 despite treatment. I’ve also suffered from many side effects of these medications, right now I stopped taking my Hydrochlorothiazide this week, and noticed no difference in my BP and only take Amlodipine, because I suspect that the high dose of Hydrochlorothiazide was increasing my renin, and making the ARR blood test not conclusive.
I’m an active 51-year-old. My blood pressure is highest after I eat and tend to be very sensitive to salt. I’m on a very low sodium diet. My question, for those of you diagnosed with Aldosteronism, have you suffered from pain in the lower back and flank area around the kidney? Did your adrenal gland tumor cause discomfort and pain? I have no symptoms of Cushing’s, or kidney issues. I suspect that the discomfort and pain is caused by a tumor in my adrenal gland, but I don't know. Has anyone had similar pain? Thanks!