17 MAY – WORLD HYPERTENSION DAY
The main goal of the day is to raise awareness of the population about hypertension – high blood pressure, its complications, the role of prevention, early diagnosis and timely treatment of the disease.
Arterial hypertension affects an estimated 1.28 billion people worldwide, and it is the cause of death for more than 7 million of them annually. Uncontrolled and untreated hypertension is the most common cardiovascular disease and the most significant contributor to a number of socially significant diseases, the most severe of which is stroke. Statistics show that Bulgaria is one of the countries with the highest number of cardiovascular diseases – cardiovascular mortality accounts for over 60% of total mortality, with the main burden being associated with arterial hypertension.
Since the initial symptoms of hypertension are quite mild, often the disease is diagnosed only at an advanced stage, when severe and permanent damage has been done to the body.
Stress, improper diet and insufficient exercise are the main factors in the increase in blood pressure.
What is renin?
Renin is an enzyme that controls the production of aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone that plays an important role in maintaining normal concentrations of sodium and potassium in the blood, as well as in controlling blood volume and blood pressure. The test measures the amount of renin in the blood.
Why is the study of renin levels in the blood performed?
Plasma renin activity is measured as part of the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Patients with primary hyperaldosteronism have increased aldosterone production associated with decreased plasma renin activity. Patients with secondary hyperaldosteronism (i.e., caused by renal disease or renovascular hypertension) have increased plasma renin and aldosterone levels.
What is aldosterone?
Aldosterone is a steroid hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex. It is part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and is an integral part of the complex mechanisms that control water and electrolyte balance in the body. Its action affects sodium, potassium and water levels through the excretory and circulatory systems.
What is the function of aldosterone?
The main function of aldosterone is to increase reabsorption (reverse suction) in the last part of the distal nephron duct and collecting ducts. When working specifically at this site, the hormone binds to the mineralocorticoid receptors of the distal duct. Once aldosterone binds to the receptors, the permeability of the distal tubular membrane increases. This facilitates the passage of potassium and sodium.
What is the preparation for testing renin levels in the blood?
The doctor may advise the patient to temporarily stop (2 to 4 weeks before the test) medications that may interfere with the test (such as beta-blockers, 2-agonists, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Adherence to a normal, balanced, low-sodium diet (about 3 g per day) for 3 days before the test is recommended. On the day of the procedure, the patient should not consume foods or beverages that contain caffeine.
Testing of renin and aldosterone levels in the blood – Arterial hypertension package – price 67 BGN – PROMOTIONAL PRICE UNTIL THE END OF THE MONTH JUNE
- Results within 15 working days;
- A sampling fee is payable locally.
