Pheochromocytoma & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is pheochromocytoma?

Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor of the adrenal glands. Normally the adrenal glands secrete a hormone called epinephrine or other similar substances that cause high blood pressure, tachycardia, and headaches and sweating. In a person with pheochromocytoma, the adrenal glands secrete excessive amounts of hormones. Pheochromocytoma is one of the causes of high blood pressure.

How common is pheochromocytoma?

According to statistics, there are about 2 to 8 cases of Pheochromocytoma in every more than 1 million people every year. This disease can occur in all sexes and ages but generally in people aged 30-50 years. Because it is a rare genetic disease, people who have family members with this condition will be at high risk.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of pheochromocytoma?

Common symptoms are headache attacks, anxiety, abnormal heartbeat, sweating, high blood pressure, heat intolerance, dizziness when standing, abdominal pain, constipation, tightness in the chest. In addition, if the symptoms of high blood pressure are not controlled, it can lead to vision loss, heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke.

Some of the other symptoms or signs may not be listed above. If you feel anxious about these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

When should I see a doctor?

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Blood pressure still cannot be normalized even after taking medication
• Have a family member with this disease
• Have family members who suffer from diseases related to gene disorders such as multi endocrine neoplasia, Von Hippel-Lindau disease, nerve fiber tumors and type 1 parasympathetic ganglion tumors

Cause

What causes pheochromocytoma?

Researchers have found a specific cause for pheochromocytoma. This disease is often not related to genetic factors, but 10% of cases are caused by endocrine tumor disease in the family.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for pheochromocytoma?

There are many risk factors for pheochromocytoma, namely:

• Von Hippel-Lindau disease: this disease is characterized by tumors that appear in various locations in the body, usually in the central nervous system, endocrine glands, pancreas and kidneys.
• Type 1 nerve tumor disease: This disease usually causes various tumors on the skin, hyperpigmented spots on the skin and tumors on the optic nerve.
• Genetic parasympathetic ganglion tumors cause tumors in the adrenal medulla and parasympathetic ganglion
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia: this disease develops endocrine tumors in many parts of the body. Common sites are the thyroid, parathyroid, lips, tongue, and gastrointestinal tract

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for pheochromocytoma?

More than 90% of pheochromocytoma can be cured by surgical removal of the tumor. The doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure while waiting for surgery.

However, surgical procedures can cause complications, including bleeding and infection, but they are very rare. Myeloma and malignant pheochromocytoma cannot be cured by surgery. Then the doctor may use chemotherapy and radiation therapy to control the condition.

What are the usual tests for pheochromocytoma?

The doctor can diagnose the disease by asking about medication history and examination of clinical symptoms. Then the doctor will give you a blood test and urine test within 24 hours to measure the level of hormones produced by the tumor. You should not drink alcohol, coffee, or amphetamines, benzodiazepines, some antidepressants or lithium during the test as they may have false results.

In addition, MRI, CT and imaging diagnostic methods can be used to find tumors. Tumors outside the adrenal glands may require a full body image with special treatment tests.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be used to treat pheochromocytoma?

The following lifestyle and home remedies may help treat pheochromocytoma:

• Tell your doctor if you have had pheochromocytoma before or have family members who have had an endocrine tumor. Your family should be checked with a blood test for an adrenal medullary tumor
• Tell your doctor if you have blurred vision, severe headache, weakness in half of your body, pain in your chest, or an increased heart rate.
• Tell your doctor if you have swelling in your ankles, have shortness of breath, are weak and dizzy when you stand up
• Tell your doctor if symptoms recur after surgery

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.