What condition might present with hyperkalemia and hyponatremia, especially in a patient craving salty foods?

The condition characterized by hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) and hyponatremia (low sodium levels), particularly in a patient experiencing cravings for salty foods, is Addison's disease. This condition, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, arises from the inadequate production of adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone.

In Addison's disease, the lack of aldosterone contributes to the retention of potassium, leading to hyperkalemia while causing the kidneys to excrete more sodium, resulting in hyponatremia. The body's deficiency in mineralocorticoids prompts the patient to crave salty foods as a way to compensate for low sodium levels and restore balance. Additionally, individuals may experience other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure.

Understanding the hormonal functions is crucial here. Aldosterone's primary role is to regulate sodium and potassium levels, and its deficiency profoundly affects electrolyte homeostasis. In contrast, Cushing’s syndrome features excess cortisol and may lead to sodium retention but typically presents with hypernatremia and hypokalemia, not the electrolyte patterns seen in Addison’s disease. Hypoaldosteronism could also cause hyperkalemia and hyponatremia but does not typically present with the specific salt