Pheochromocytoma Overview: Symptoms and Treatment
Pheochromocytoma is a rare adrenal tumor causing high blood pressure, headaches, and anxiety-like symptoms. Learn about its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Living with unexplained high blood pressure, headaches, or sudden episodes of sweating and anxiety can be frightening. These symptoms might be signs of a rare but treatable condition called pheochromocytoma. If you or a loved one is experiencing these issues, understanding this condition can help you take the right steps toward better health.
What is Pheochromocytoma?
Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor that develops in the adrenal glands, which are small organs located above your kidneys. These tumors are usually non-cancerous (benign), but they can cause serious health problems because they produce excessive amounts of certain hormones, mainly adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine).
These hormones regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and the body's response to stress. When too much is released, it leads to sudden spikes in blood pressure and other distressing symptoms.
Symptoms of Pheochromocytoma
The symptoms of pheochromocytoma can come and go, often triggered by stress, physical activity, or even certain foods. Common signs include:
- Severe high blood pressure (hypertension) – Often sudden and hard to control with regular medications.
- Headaches – Intense and throbbing, similar to migraines.
- Excessive sweating – Even when not exercising or in a hot environment.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations) – Feeling like your heart is racing or skipping beats.
- Anxiety or panic attacks – Sudden feelings of fear or nervousness.
- Tremors or shaking – Especially in the hands.
- Pale skin or flushing – Sudden changes in skin color.
- Chest or abdominal pain – Discomfort that may come and go.
These symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions like anxiety disorders, heart disease, or even menopause. If you experience these frequently, it’s important to consult a doctor.
What Causes Pheochromocytoma?
Most cases occur randomly, but some are linked to genetic conditions such as:
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) type 2 – A disorder affecting hormone-producing glands.
- Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease – A condition causing tumors in various organs.
- Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) – A disorder affecting nerve tissues.
If you have a family history of these conditions, you may be at higher risk.
How is Pheochromocytoma Diagnosed?
Since symptoms can mimic other illnesses, doctors use specific tests to confirm pheochromocytoma:
1. Blood and urine tests – To measure hormone levels (catecholamines and metanephrines).
2. Imaging tests – CT or MRI scans to locate the tumor.
3. Genetic testing – If an inherited condition is suspected.
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications like stroke, heart disease, or organ damage from uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Treatment Options
The primary treatment for pheochromocytoma is surgical removal of the tumor. Before surgery, doctors prescribe medications to control blood pressure and hormone levels, such as:
- Alpha-blockers (e.g., phenoxybenzamine) – To relax blood vessels.
- Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) – To manage heart rate (only given after alpha-blockers).
- In rare cases where the tumor is cancerous (malignant), additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy may be needed.
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Lifestyle and Dietary Tips
While surgery is the main treatment, certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms:
- Avoid stress triggers – Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly – Keep track of readings and report sudden spikes to your doctor.
- Stay hydrated – Dehydration can worsen symptoms.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol – These can trigger adrenaline release.
- Avoid certain foods – Aged cheeses, cured meats, and fermented foods (they contain tyramine, which can raise blood pressure).
- Exercise cautiously – Intense workouts may trigger symptoms; opt for moderate activities like walking.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- Unexplained high blood pressure
- Frequent, severe headaches with sweating
- Sudden panic-like episodes
You should consult a specialist. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Need Help? Book a Consultation Today!
If you suspect pheochromocytoma or have uncontrolled high blood pressure, don’t wait. Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and diagnostic tests to help you get the right treatment.
Final Thoughts
Pheochromocytoma is rare but manageable with proper care. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. With the right treatment, most people recover fully and lead healthy lives.
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Consult Top General Practitioner
Dr. Gaddam Manoj
General Practitioner
1 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Aaradhya clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Bulbul Biswas
General Practitioner
35 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Maternity and child welfare
Kolkata
HERSTEL CARE CLINIC, Kolkata
Dr. Mary Susan K S
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Roopesh Yarappa
General Physician
11 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Arthi S
Family Physician
3 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru