If you’ve ever heard a doctor mention an "adrenal tumor" that makes your heart race, they’re probably talking about pheochromocytoma. It’s a rare growth in the adrenal glands that releases too much adrenaline and norepinephrine. The result? Sudden spikes in blood pressure, sweating, headaches, and a feeling like you’ve just run a marathon without moving. Knowing the basics helps you spot it early and get proper care.
Most people with pheochromocytoma notice episodes of pounding heartbeats that come out of nowhere. These attacks often bring a pounding headache, sweaty palms, and a shaky feeling. You might also feel scared or anxious for no clear reason. Blood pressure can jump to dangerous levels during an episode, then drop back down later. If you’ve had several of these bouts, especially if they happen with stress‑free moments like sitting at your desk, it’s worth getting checked.
The first step is a blood or urine test that looks for excess catecholamines – the chemicals adrenaline releases. A 24‑hour urine collection is common because hormone levels can swing wildly throughout the day. If those labs are high, imaging steps in. A CT scan or MRI of the abdomen shows whether there’s a mass on one (or both) adrenal glands. Sometimes doctors use a special nuclear medicine scan called MIBG to pinpoint the tumor’s activity.
Once the tumor is found, the treatment plan usually starts with medication to block the hormone surge. Alpha‑blockers like phenoxybenzamine calm blood pressure before any surgery. Some patients also need beta‑blockers after the alpha drugs are in place. The goal is to keep you stable so surgeons can safely remove the growth.
Surgery is the definitive cure for most pheochromocytomas. Laparoscopic (keyhole) removal works for smaller tumors, while larger or tricky ones may need an open approach. After the tumor’s out, doctors monitor your blood pressure and repeat labs to make sure hormone levels stay normal. Most people feel a big improvement within weeks.
If surgery isn’t possible—because of other health issues or tumor spread—other options exist. Targeted radiation (like I-131 MIBG therapy) can shrink the tumor, and newer drugs that block specific pathways are being tested in trials. Regardless of the route, regular follow‑up is crucial because these tumors can come back.
Bottom line: pheochromocytoma may sound scary, but catching it early makes treatment straightforward. If you experience sudden heart‑racing episodes, headaches, or sweaty spells, talk to your doctor about checking catecholamine levels. Early diagnosis, proper medication, and surgery give most patients a full return to normal life.
Living with pheochromocytoma can be challenging, but there are ways to reduce stress and improve our daily lives. One crucial strategy is to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, a balanced diet, and proper sleep. It's also important to stay informed about our condition and seek support from friends, family, or support groups. We should also work closely with our healthcare team to monitor our symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. Lastly, engaging in relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and lower anxiety levels.
