What are the early symptoms of adrenal tumors?

Early symptoms of adrenal tumors may not be obvious, but if you experience persistent high blood pressure, unexplained weight changes, or periodic headaches, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some adrenal tumors may cause characteristic manifestations due to abnormal hormone secretion, such as facial edema, fat accumulation on the back (the so-called "buffalo shoulders"), thinning of the skin, and purple lines.

The onset of these symptoms is usually related to the type of tumor. If the tumor secretes too much cortisol, it may cause Cushing's syndrome, including hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, etc.; if it secretes too much aldosterone, it will lead to refractory hypertension and hypokalemia, manifested as muscle weakness and cramps; adrenal tumors that secrete too much catecholamines (such as pheochromocytoma) may cause severe headaches, palpitations, excessive sweating and anxiety. Some adrenal tumors are non-functional and will not show obvious symptoms in the early stages, but as the tumor grows in size, it may cause abdominal distension or discomfort due to compression of adjacent organs.

The onset of these symptoms is usually related to the type of tumor. If the tumor secretes too much cortisol, it may cause Cushing's syndrome, including hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, etc.; if it secretes too much aldosterone, it will lead to refractory hypertension and hypokalemia, manifested as muscle weakness and cramps; adrenal tumors that secrete too much catecholamines (such as pheochromocytoma) may cause severe headaches, palpitations, excessive sweating and anxiety. Some adrenal tumors are non-functional and will not show obvious symptoms in the early stages, but as the tumor grows in size, it may cause abdominal distension or discomfort due to compression of adjacent organs.

If you suspect an adrenal tumor, you should seek medical attention promptly. Routine imaging (such as CT, MRI) and blood/urine tests can help determine whether it is a hormone-secreting tumor. Maintaining a good lifestyle and regular physical examinations can also help with early detection. Those with symptoms are advised to avoid a high-salt diet, exercise moderately to control blood pressure, and work closely with a doctor to develop a treatment plan, such as drug therapy (such as antihypertensive drugs, control of hormone secretion), and even surgical removal of the tumor when necessary.