Re: Re: Genetics-GRA?

May 10, 2012

What does that mean when someone says it runs in their family? Is it a direct connection like the Hemingways or just that someone had it in a family history?

In terms of depression I always ask if it was justifiable sadness or true depression. Someone, like my mom, who lost her mom at age 15 and her dad earlier, had a stepdad who abonded her when her mom died, and who had kids at 17 (me) and who was never in a really happy marriage financially or maturity-wise (my dad was 17 too) until her own death at age 38 had some periods of terrible sadness and was often brooding and dark. But was she clinically depressed or justifiably sad? I often ponder that because we are so quick to label everyone depressed with a near wild abandon (I mean "us" in medicine and the public today) and because in my mom's case, IF it was depression does this mean if I ever get depressed that it is genetic.

Can three generations have family have a depressed individual and it not be genetic? What about addiction? Do we assume it is a family trait if 3 generations of families of say 8 people each have one person with one or the other? We usually call it as a runs in the family but who really knows if it's genetic or not. In 10 people at least 1 is likely to have an addiction issue in any given population, same with depression (9.5% - I looked it up). So if there are 10 people in our past 1 is likely to have had depression and/or addiction.

I am very much NOT prone to depression by my nature and I have said this here that I adapt very well to lifes changes, whether I am pleased with changes that happen is another story, but I can turn away from things if it means adapting to it. Anxiety yes, depression or darkness no. I get very frustrated, but always see a brighter star even if I have to squint. But does depression "run in my family?" Looking back some may say so. If I get depressed a year from now if my faithful dog dies is it genetic depression or just depression, or is it simply a period of sadness? Will someone down the road say a "positive outlook" runs in the family if they knew how I am? Likely not.

In terms of addiction we have gotten where we always say addiction runs in the family but in reality nearly every family in modern society has SOMEONE in the past history who had a substance problem, and thus we will often say it "runs in the family". I suspect it more often "walked" into the family every so often - more so than "ran" in the family.

Just things I ponder on sometimes. I think depression is a term thrown around in medicine and society too much.

From: Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA <georgewbill@...>Subject: Re: Genetics-GRA?hyperaldosteronism Date: Thursday, May 10, 2012, 8:04 AM

There does seen to be some links to excess aldo and bipolar disorder and depression. It might be a case of what came first the chicken or the egg. Both bipolar disorder and depression runs in my family. >> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> Debbie 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,hyperaldosteronism > From: virgwall@...> Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about

5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning

all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)>

May 10, 2012

How long have you been on the labetolol, Virginia? BB's are notorious for being overlooked as a cause of sadness and moodiness and especially depression feelings. I saw personalities change overnight when I'd take my nursing home patients off beta blockers sometimes. Labetolol really messes with my wife's mood.

From: Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA <georgewbill@...>Subject: Re: Genetics-GRA?hyperaldosteronism Date: Thursday, May 10, 2012, 8:04 AM

There does seen to be some links to excess aldo and bipolar disorder and depression. It might be a case of what came first the chicken or the egg. Both bipolar disorder and depression runs in my family. >> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> Debbie 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,hyperaldosteronism > From: virgwall@...> Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about

5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning

all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)>

May 10, 2012

How long have you been on the labetolol, Virginia? BB's are notorious for being overlooked as a cause of sadness and moodiness and especially depression feelings. I saw personalities change overnight when I'd take my nursing home patients off beta blockers sometimes. Labetolol really messes with my wife's mood.

From: Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA <georgewbill@...>Subject: Re: Genetics-GRA?hyperaldosteronism Date: Thursday, May 10, 2012, 8:04 AM

There does seen to be some links to excess aldo and bipolar disorder and depression. It might be a case of what came first the chicken or the egg. Both bipolar disorder and depression runs in my family. >> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> Debbie 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,hyperaldosteronism > From: virgwall@...> Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about

5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning

all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)>

May 10, 2012

That is an interesting thought because my muscles are still so weak after any type of exertion. I have "sore" muscles every day, and unfortunately I'm sure this is not from exercise! Is it common for individuals to need slightly higher K, or even once your K does get to normal levels, it takes awhile for your body/muscles to get regulated?VirginiaSent from my iPhone On May 10, 2012, at 8:10 AM, "Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA" <georgewbill@...> wrote:

Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you.

>

> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.

> > Debbie

> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,

> > hyperaldosteronism

> > From: virgwall@...

> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000

> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?

> >

> > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.

> >

> > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?

> >

> > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?

> >

> > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!

> >

> > Virginia

> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February

> > labetalol 200 mg bid

> > K 20 Meq bid

> > spiro 100 mg 1xday

> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)

> >

>

May 10, 2012

, I've been on labetalol since I got pregnant, about a year. I am not ruling out side effects from my meds though, maybe even the current "cocktail" I'm on is causing problems. I do think the labetalol has been wreaking havoc with my asthma for the last year. I agree about genetics being blamed for mental illness (and now I would argue high BP!!) too much. VirginiaCurrent K 3.8Labetalol 200 mg bidK 20 meq bidPrenatal vitaminSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 8:38 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote:

How long have you been on the labetolol, Virginia? BB's are notorious for being overlooked as a cause of sadness and moodiness and especially depression feelings. I saw personalities change overnight when I'd take my nursing home patients off beta blockers sometimes. Labetolol really messes with my wife's mood.

From: Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA <georgewbill@...>Subject: Re: Genetics-GRA?hyperaldosteronism Date: Thursday, May 10, 2012, 8:04 AM

There does seen to be some links to excess aldo and bipolar disorder and depression. It might be a case of what came first the chicken or the egg. Both bipolar disorder and depression runs in my family. >> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> Debbie 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,hyperaldosteronism > From: virgwall@...> Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about

5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning

all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)>

May 10, 2012

I still supplement with K even though my pressure is good and I've been able to stop the spiro. I lose it somewhere or the body was used to dumping and it still does(? )I have no idea but I no longer get up all night to pee like I used to, yet when I stop taking the K .

and I now take the OTC potassium gluconate because I found out from Dr G early on it was likely the chloride in the prescription potassium chloride that was giving me these ripping headaches at first. I have to take more of that kind because it's different, so I was taking 2 tablets 3 times a day, now just twice a day. If I skip a day though I can certainly tell.

Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells

,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> > Debbie> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,> > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@...> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for

about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I

need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)> > > > > >>

May 10, 2012

Well it makes sense to me although you're controlling your BP by avoiding Na you still have excess Aldo wasting K. I also have headaches 4-5x week. Since I'm on spiro right now I should be able to stop the K and maybe that will help with my headaches. That would be nice!!VirginiaSent from my iPhone Labetalol 200 mg bidCurrent K 3.8K 20 Meq bidSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 11:43 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote:

I still supplement with K even though my pressure is good and I've been able to stop the spiro. I lose it somewhere or the body was used to dumping and it still does(? )I have no idea but I no longer get up all night to pee like I used to, yet when I stop taking the K .

and I now take the OTC potassium gluconate because I found out from Dr G early on it was likely the chloride in the prescription potassium chloride that was giving me these ripping headaches at first. I have to take more of that kind because it's different, so I was taking 2 tablets 3 times a day, now just twice a day. If I skip a day though I can certainly tell.

Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells

,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> > Debbie> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,> > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@...> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for

about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I

need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)> > > > > >>

May 10, 2012

DASH more?CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 9:00 AM, Virginia Wall wrote: That is an interesting thought because my muscles are still so weak after any type of exertion. I have "sore" muscles every day, and unfortunately I'm sure this is not from exercise! Is it common for individuals to need slightly higher K, or even once your K does get to normal levels, it takes awhile for your body/muscles to get regulated?VirginiaSent from my iPhone On May 10, 2012, at 8:10 AM, "Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA" <georgewbill@...> wrote: Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around. > > Debbie > > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011, > > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@... > > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000 > > Subject: Genetics-GRA? > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression. > > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues? > > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation? > > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!! > > > > Virginia > > 31 year old female diagnosed in February > > labetalol 200 mg bid > > K 20 Meq bid > > spiro 100 mg 1xday > > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet) > > > > > > >

May 10, 2012

Ah you did not mention asthma. Trust you told you Dr about it.BB can do this as well.I would ask about stepping down?CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 9:07 AM, Virginia Wall wrote: , I've been on labetalol since I got pregnant, about a year. I am not ruling out side effects from my meds though, maybe even the current "cocktail" I'm on is causing problems. I do think the labetalol has been wreaking havoc with my asthma for the last year. I agree about genetics being blamed for mental illness (and now I would argue high BP!!) too much. VirginiaCurrent K 3.8Labetalol 200 mg bidK 20 meq bidPrenatal vitaminSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 8:38 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote: How long have you been on the labetolol, Virginia? BB's are notorious for being overlooked as a cause of sadness and moodiness and especially depression feelings. I saw personalities change overnight when I'd take my nursing home patients off beta blockers sometimes. Labetolol really messes with my wife's mood. From: Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA <georgewbill@...>Subject: Re: Genetics-GRA?hyperaldosteronism Date: Thursday, May 10, 2012, 8:04 AM There does seen to be some links to excess aldo and bipolar disorder and depression. It might be a case of what came first the chicken or the egg. Both bipolar disorder and depression runs in my family. >> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> Debbie 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,hyperaldosteronism > From: virgwall@...> Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)>

May 10, 2012

Yes sorry. Usually my asthma is very infrequent and induced by only lots of dust or smoke or something like that. I probably only use an inhaler once or twice a year. But since I've been on labetalol I've gone through 2 inhalers, having periods of bad asthma attacks every few weeks. I complained about the asthma to my OB, I'm surprised he didn't put it together. Since I've been diagnosed with hyperaldo I've been actually researching drugs so I just found out recently BB can cause that. I just blamed it on pregnancy. I told my PCP about this issue 2 months ago and he wants to get me off labetalol ASAP. I have the ok to wean myself off, I'm thinking I'll go down to 100 mg bid vs 200 mg bid?VirginiaSent from my iPhone Labetalol 200 mg bidCurrent K 3.8K 20 Meq bidSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 5:39 PM, Clarence Grim <lowerbp2@...> wrote:

Ah you did not mention asthma. Trust you told you Dr about it.BB can do this as well.I would ask about stepping down?CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 9:07 AM, Virginia Wall wrote: , I've been on labetalol since I got pregnant, about a year. I am not ruling out side effects from my meds though, maybe even the current "cocktail" I'm on is causing problems. I do think the labetalol has been wreaking havoc with my asthma for the last year. I agree about genetics being blamed for mental illness (and now I would argue high BP!!) too much. VirginiaCurrent K 3.8Labetalol 200 mg bidK 20 meq bidPrenatal vitaminSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 8:38 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote: How long have you been on the labetolol, Virginia? BB's are notorious for being overlooked as a cause of sadness and moodiness and especially depression feelings. I saw personalities change overnight when I'd take my nursing home patients off beta blockers sometimes. Labetolol really messes with my wife's mood. From: Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA <georgewbill@...>Subject: Re: Genetics-GRA?hyperaldosteronism Date: Thursday, May 10, 2012, 8:04 AM There does seen to be some links to excess aldo and bipolar disorder and depression. It might be a case of what came first the chicken or the egg. Both bipolar disorder and depression runs in my family. >> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> Debbie 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,hyperaldosteronism > From: virgwall@...> Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)>

May 10, 2012

have you tried low Na V8?On May 10, 2012, at 11:43 AM, Bingham wrote: I still supplement with K even though my pressure is good and I've been able to stop the spiro. I lose it somewhere or the body was used to dumping and it still does(? )I have no idea but I no longer get up all night to pee like I used to, yet when I stop taking the K . and I now take the OTC potassium gluconate because I found out from Dr G early on it was likely the chloride in the prescription potassium chloride that was giving me these ripping headaches at first. I have to take more of that kind because it's different, so I was taking 2 tablets 3 times a day, now just twice a day. If I skip a day though I can certainly tell. Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> > Debbie> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,> > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@...> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)> > > > > >>

May 10, 2012

I think I've DASHing very well for 2 weeks but I probably need to give it more time. VirginiaSent from my iPhone Labetalol 200 mg bidCurrent K 3.8K 20 Meq bidSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 5:37 PM, Clarence Grim <lowerbp2@...> wrote:

DASH more?CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 9:00 AM, Virginia Wall wrote: That is an interesting thought because my muscles are still so weak after any type of exertion. I have "sore" muscles every day, and unfortunately I'm sure this is not from exercise! Is it common for individuals to need slightly higher K, or even once your K does get to normal levels, it takes awhile for your body/muscles to get regulated?VirginiaSent from my iPhone On May 10, 2012, at 8:10 AM, "Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA" <georgewbill@...> wrote: Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around. > > Debbie > > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011, > > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@... > > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000 > > Subject: Genetics-GRA? > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression. > > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues? > > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation? > > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!! > > > > Virginia > > 31 year old female diagnosed in February > > labetalol 200 mg bid > > K 20 Meq bid > > spiro 100 mg 1xday > > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet) > > > > > > >

May 10, 2012

In general to waste K you must also be eating excess Na.CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 1:31 PM, Virginia Wall wrote: Well it makes sense to me although you're controlling your BP by avoiding Na you still have excess Aldo wasting K. I also have headaches 4-5x week. Since I'm on spiro right now I should be able to stop the K and maybe that will help with my headaches. That would be nice!!VirginiaSent from my iPhone Labetalol 200 mg bidCurrent K 3.8K 20 Meq bidSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 11:43 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote: I still supplement with K even though my pressure is good and I've been able to stop the spiro. I lose it somewhere or the body was used to dumping and it still does(? )I have no idea but I no longer get up all night to pee like I used to, yet when I stop taking the K . and I now take the OTC potassium gluconate because I found out from Dr G early on it was likely the chloride in the prescription potassium chloride that was giving me these ripping headaches at first. I have to take more of that kind because it's different, so I was taking 2 tablets 3 times a day, now just twice a day. If I skip a day though I can certainly tell. Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> > Debbie> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,> > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@...> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)> > > > > >>

May 10, 2012

Oh even with excess aldo? I didn't know that. VirginiaSent from my iPhone On May 10, 2012, at 6:10 PM, Clarence Grim <lowerbp2@...> wrote:

In general to waste K you must also be eating excess Na.CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 1:31 PM, Virginia Wall wrote: Well it makes sense to me although you're controlling your BP by avoiding Na you still have excess Aldo wasting K. I also have headaches 4-5x week. Since I'm on spiro right now I should be able to stop the K and maybe that will help with my headaches. That would be nice!!VirginiaSent from my iPhone Labetalol 200 mg bidCurrent K 3.8K 20 Meq bidSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 11:43 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote: I still supplement with K even though my pressure is good and I've been able to stop the spiro. I lose it somewhere or the body was used to dumping and it still does(? )I have no idea but I no longer get up all night to pee like I used to, yet when I stop taking the K . and I now take the OTC potassium gluconate because I found out from Dr G early on it was likely the chloride in the prescription potassium chloride that was giving me these ripping headaches at first. I have to take more of that kind because it's different, so I was taking 2 tablets 3 times a day, now just twice a day. If I skip a day though I can certainly tell. Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> > Debbie> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,> > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@...> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)> > > > > >>

May 10, 2012

Let's do 10 days at 100 bid then 50 bid then stop. Keep us posted.CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 5:56 PM, Virginia Wall wrote: Yes sorry. Usually my asthma is very infrequent and induced by only lots of dust or smoke or something like that. I probably only use an inhaler once or twice a year. But since I've been on labetalol I've gone through 2 inhalers, having periods of bad asthma attacks every few weeks. I complained about the asthma to my OB, I'm surprised he didn't put it together. Since I've been diagnosed with hyperaldo I've been actually researching drugs so I just found out recently BB can cause that. I just blamed it on pregnancy. I told my PCP about this issue 2 months ago and he wants to get me off labetalol ASAP. I have the ok to wean myself off, I'm thinking I'll go down to 100 mg bid vs 200 mg bid?VirginiaSent from my iPhone Labetalol 200 mg bidCurrent K 3.8K 20 Meq bidSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 5:39 PM, Clarence Grim <lowerbp2@...> wrote: Ah you did not mention asthma. Trust you told you Dr about it.BB can do this as well.I would ask about stepping down?CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 9:07 AM, Virginia Wall wrote: , I've been on labetalol since I got pregnant, about a year. I am not ruling out side effects from my meds though, maybe even the current "cocktail" I'm on is causing problems. I do think the labetalol has been wreaking havoc with my asthma for the last year. I agree about genetics being blamed for mental illness (and now I would argue high BP!!) too much. VirginiaCurrent K 3.8Labetalol 200 mg bidK 20 meq bidPrenatal vitaminSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 8:38 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote: How long have you been on the labetolol, Virginia? BB's are notorious for being overlooked as a cause of sadness and moodiness and especially depression feelings. I saw personalities change overnight when I'd take my nursing home patients off beta blockers sometimes. Labetolol really messes with my wife's mood. From: Francis Bill SUSPECTED PA <georgewbill@...>Subject: Re: Genetics-GRA?hyperaldosteronism Date: Thursday, May 10, 2012, 8:04 AM There does seen to be some links to excess aldo and bipolar disorder and depression. It might be a case of what came first the chicken or the egg. Both bipolar disorder and depression runs in my family. >> > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> Debbie 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,hyperaldosteronism > From: virgwall@...> Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)>

May 10, 2012

Yes as Na moves into renal tubule cell and is pumped back into blood K and H go into the urine to maintain electrical neutrality.CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 6:14 PM, Virginia Wall wrote: Oh even with excess aldo? I didn't know that. VirginiaSent from my iPhone On May 10, 2012, at 6:10 PM, Clarence Grim <lowerbp2@...> wrote: In general to waste K you must also be eating excess Na.CE Grim MDOn May 10, 2012, at 1:31 PM, Virginia Wall wrote: Well it makes sense to me although you're controlling your BP by avoiding Na you still have excess Aldo wasting K. I also have headaches 4-5x week. Since I'm on spiro right now I should be able to stop the K and maybe that will help with my headaches. That would be nice!!VirginiaSent from my iPhone Labetalol 200 mg bidCurrent K 3.8K 20 Meq bidSpiro 100 mg 1x dayOn May 10, 2012, at 11:43 AM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote: I still supplement with K even though my pressure is good and I've been able to stop the spiro. I lose it somewhere or the body was used to dumping and it still does(? )I have no idea but I no longer get up all night to pee like I used to, yet when I stop taking the K . and I now take the OTC potassium gluconate because I found out from Dr G early on it was likely the chloride in the prescription potassium chloride that was giving me these ripping headaches at first. I have to take more of that kind because it's different, so I was taking 2 tablets 3 times a day, now just twice a day. If I skip a day though I can certainly tell. Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> > Debbie> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,> > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@...> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)> > > > > >>

May 10, 2012

Except Dr G and colleagues over the years had found that it appears that, at lower levels, the aldo is actually pretty inert unless combined with salt in us with PA.

I surely do not waste it (my K) like I used to because I no longer pee 10 times a night. I did that all the time. I never actually counted but because I had such bad insomnia I used to wonder if I was urinating something out (my K or ketones etc) or if I was just "awake" and felt that urge. It was never a "I have to go NOW!" but the urge never left. Didn't do that in the daytime. I told the doctor all the time about it.

Urinating all night I think was seen kind of like the insomnia was where you tell them in your terms how bad it REALLY REALLY was and they kind of shrug and you can see their mind saying "yeah, everyone has a little insomnia sometimes, I did in school, blah blah blah..." and they compare it to what they know. I think they thought I was lying when I said I was awake for a week at a time (I could get an hour here or there on muscle relaxers, but never more than 2 hours max due to the thyroid mostly) . Again, we sit in front of them alive and talking and still going to work and raising our kids and talking nice etc and not laying on the floor in a seizure writhing in pain and discomfort so they have to think we are exaggerating or just being drama queens and kings and they always ignored it for what it was. AHH......I can taste my own bitterness sometimes.......sorry.

Anyway, is it our salt sensitivity that actually triggers the excess release of the aldo over someone with out a salt sesnitivity and without a faulty adrenal? So if salt is lower on DASH or whatever, do we have lower aldo production or is the aldo still high? Anyone ?Dr G? I never had my 24 hour urines done right or done off the meds (or even checked for aldo!) so I don't know that one.

I still supplement my K because I have tried not to, but I can tell immediately when I need it (I have no "legs" as a cue - well I still have my chicken legs but I mean they're weak ). But I admit my DASH is good on salt, bad on total K.

Even though K is a bit above normal at 3.8 it may not be high enough for you. > > > I have BAH so don't know about GRA but I was on spiro for 6 mo. I had mood swings ,crying spells ,anxiety and just couldn't handle life. I was put on

Eplerenone and felt much better. Did moodiness start when you were put on spiro? I had left ADX 6 mo ago. I'm off meds now and my bp is normal. The only time I feel a little anxiety is when my cycle comes around.> > Debbie> > 50 yo female, BAH, diagnosed Mar. 2010, left ADX Nov. 2011,> > hyperaldosteronism > > From: virgwall@...> > Date: Thu, 10 May 2012 01:48:29 +0000> > Subject: Genetics-GRA?> > > > > > So I'm curious about anyone having familial aldo. I'm starting to wonder if I have glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism. I have always known my grandma has suffered from low K & high BP for about 5 decades, but I just found out my uncle has too for about 3 decades. Plus my great grandma died from

a heart attack at 49. (all the same line). My brother also has had high BP for about 5-7 years but I haven't asked him about K issues yet. I know he suffers from periodic anxiety & depression.> > > > I'm starting to wonder about GRA also because all evidence suggests I should be feeling better now that my K has stabilized but I am having many other severe symptoms, so I think cortisol might be an issue. I have extreme joint pain & pain in my feet, severe mood swings & anxiety to name a few. Or does GRA cause thyroid issues?> > > > Is there anyone in our group who has GRA? And what is the most efficient testing to diagnose this situation?> > > > Also, if anyone wants to give moral support I'll take it. This is starting to wear on me. I am crying every day and feeling like I need to throw up from anxiety constantly :-( Pretty ironic considering I've always been a reasonably happy

person and always able to manage stress very well. I am learning all types of new sympathy for people suffering with mood disorders!!> > > > Virginia> > 31 year old female diagnosed in February> > labetalol 200 mg bid> > K 20 Meq bid> > spiro 100 mg 1xday> > Latest K 3.8 (without tourniquet)> > > > > >>

May 10, 2012

Ok ok I've been schooled. Lol but seriously I am learning a lot from you guys. I have also found its difficult to get all the K we are supposed to. I keep meaning to stock up on that low sodium V8. VirginiaSent from my iPhone On May 10, 2012, at 6:57 PM, Bingham <jlkbbk2003@...> wrote: