What are the symptoms of adrenal tumors in men?

The symptoms of male adrenal tumors depend on whether the tumor causes abnormal hormone secretion. Common symptoms include high blood pressure, abnormal weight, excessive sweating, and increased body hair. If the above symptoms occur, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to get a clear diagnosis and adopt an appropriate treatment plan.

1. Hypertension and cardiovascular manifestations

Adrenal tumors may secrete excessive amounts of adrenaline or norepinephrine, leading to increased blood pressure. Patients may experience persistent hypertension, paroxysmal hypertension, and even dizziness, palpitations, and other symptoms. In terms of treatment, alpha-receptor blockers (such as phentolamine) can be taken to control blood pressure and relieve symptoms.

2. Weight changes and metabolic abnormalities

Functional adrenal tumors may cause metabolic disorders. For example, patients with Cushing's syndrome have elevated cortisol levels, which can lead to weight gain (manifested as fat accumulation, especially in the face and abdomen), muscle weakness, and thinning skin. For the treatment of metabolic abnormalities, after hormone level assessment, tumor resection surgery combined with medication to treat metabolic problems may be considered, such as the use of metyrapone to reduce cortisol.

3. Appearance changes caused by hormone abnormalities

If male patients' adrenal tumors secrete too much male hormone, they may experience increased body hair, abnormally thick beards, and worsening acne. If estrogen levels are elevated, feminine characteristics may appear, such as enlarged breasts. Such manifestations also require a comprehensive endocrine evaluation. Surgical resection is a common radical treatment method, and drugs such as spironolactone may be needed to regulate hormone levels before surgery.

4. Unexplained excessive sweating or headaches

Adrenal pheochromocytoma can trigger intermittent release of hormones, leading to sympathetic nervous system excitement, with typical symptoms including excessive sweating, facial flushing, and severe headaches. In this case, imaging examinations (such as CT or MRI) are required for a clear diagnosis. Surgical resection is the main treatment, and medication is adjusted according to the condition before and after surgery.

5. Other possible symptoms

Some patients may have no obvious symptoms, and the tumor is only discovered incidentally during a physical examination or abdominal imaging examination. Such "non-functional" adrenal tumors require regular monitoring and may also require surgical removal if the tumor is large or has a high risk of malignancy.

Adrenal tumors may have systemic effects on men, ranging from high blood pressure to changes in appearance, and require full attention. If you have the above problems, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible, undergo endocrine function screening and imaging examinations, so as to choose an appropriate and effective treatment plan.