A rare adrenal tumor can mimic anxiety while silently damaging your heart and kidneys.

Health · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Pheochromocytoma is a rare, usually noncancerous tumor that forms in the adrenal glands. By releasing excess hormones like adrenaline, it triggers unpredictable spells of high blood pressure, rapid heartbeats, and panic-like symptoms. Because these signs often mimic common conditions, the tumor frequently goes undiagnosed until serious health complications arise.

A pheochromocytoma develops in the chromaffin cells located at the center of the adrenal glands, which sit atop each kidney. These cells are responsible for producing hormones that regulate vital functions, including heart rate and blood pressure. When a tumor forms, it disrupts this balance by dumping excessive amounts of adrenaline and noradrenaline into the bloodstream, often when the body is not under any actual threat. While most of these tumors are benign, about 1 in 10 are malignant and can spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, or lungs.

The hallmark of this condition is the occurrence of sudden, unpredictable spells. Patients may experience intense headaches, heavy sweating, and a racing heart, often accompanied by feelings of anxiety or a sense of doom. These attacks can be triggered by physical exertion, stress, changes in body position, or even the consumption of foods high in tyramine, such as aged cheeses or certain wines. Because symptoms are often episodic, many individuals live with the tumor for years without realizing it, sometimes misattributing their experiences to panic attacks or common hypertension.

If left untreated, the constant hormonal surge can lead to severe, life-threatening damage to the cardiovascular system, brain, and kidneys, increasing the risk of stroke, heart disease, and organ failure. Diagnosis typically involves blood and urine tests followed by imaging like CT or MRI scans. Surgery is the primary treatment, which successfully removes the tumor in about 9 out of 10 cases. Before the operation, patients are usually prescribed alpha-blockers to stabilize their blood pressure and heart rate, ensuring the body can safely manage the sudden drop in hormone levels once the tumor is removed.

Genetic factors play a significant role in some cases, with up to 1 in 3 tumors linked to inherited conditions such as von Hippel-Lindau disease or neurofibromatosis type 1. Given these associations, doctors may recommend genetic testing for patients diagnosed with a pheochromocytoma. Early detection is crucial, as successful surgical intervention generally allows most symptoms to disappear, preventing the long-term, irreversible damage that occurs when the body’s fight-or-flight response is permanently stuck in the on position.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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