Most people with pheochromocytoma have high blood pressure (hypertension) because the tumor causes the adrenal gland to produce too much adrenaline or noradrenaline. Patients can have attacks of high blood pressure that occur in sudden, short bursts, or the high blood pressure can be more continuous and long lasting.
Untreated high blood pressure can lead to heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and other problems. Many patients also have headaches, severe sweating, and heart palpitations.
Other symptoms of pheochromocytoma may include:
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Chest pain
• Upper abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Vision problems
• Shaking (tremors) of the hands
• Nervousness and irritability