What Causes High Blood Pressure? Part 3, Renal Gland Tumors

Continuing the five-part series, we will now discuss renal gland tumors.

Renal gland tumors

Renal gland tumors are rare kinds of tumors that cause secondary high blood pressure.

What are some of the types of renal gland tumors that cause high blood pressure?

There are several disorders associated with renal gland tumors that are linked to high blood pressure. They include: Hyperaldosteronism, also known as Conn syndrome, is one type of renal gland tumors. These tumors are dangerous because they produce too much of the salt-retaining hormone called aldosterone. This situation is compounded because potassium levels in the urine and blood lower. A person is diagnosed with hyperaldosteronism when he has high blood pressure and low potassium. Hypercortisolism is also known as Cushings syndrome. The adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Hyperparathyroidism occurs when the hormone, parathormone, is over-produced and calcium levels rise. Although not completely understood, hyperparathyroidism is present with people with high blood pressure levels. Pheochromocytoma is another type of renal gland tumors. These tumors produce too much cataecholamines, the producers of the adrenaline-related hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine. Pheochromocytoma is diagnosed when a person has unexpected and repeated episodes of high blood pressure thats accompanied by flushing, sweating, and a rapid heartbeat.

What are the renal glands responsible for?

The renal glands, also known as suprarenal or adrenal glands, are responsible for controlling hormone-related and chemical-related activities in every system in the body. Specifically, renal glands control the three hormones to control the balance of water and salt in the body, maintain pregnancy needs, manage the sexual maturation through puberty, manage the entire metabolic process like inflammation and blood sugar levels, and guide the response to stress. Renal glands are a needed source of estrogen and testosterone.

Where are the renal glands located in the body?

There are two renal glands and they are located on top of both the kidneys, but controlled in part by the brain. They are triangular in shape and are about three inches in length and half an inch in height. The renal glands are part of the bodys endocrine system. Its as if these two renal glands are one. The inner parts of the glands are called the adrenal medulla and they secrete adrenaline, which affect blood pressure, heart rate, and sweat. The adrenal medulla can be removed without producing any life-threatening effects. The outer parts of the glands are called the adrenal cortex and they secrete hormones that regulate carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the body. The adrenal cortex is necessary and essential to life.

Can renal gland tumors be cured?

Renal gland tumors cant be cured, but most of these renal disorders can be treated or managed through surgery, microsurgery, radiation, or drugs; however, lifestyle changes are proven to help. Lifestyle changes can be as simple as eating a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Prescription drugs are an option, as are dietary supplements. Go ahead, make some changes, and live a healthier life.