What symptoms do adrenal tumors cause?

Symptoms that may be caused by adrenal tumors include high blood pressure, abnormal weight, fatigue, skin changes, etc., depending on whether the tumor secretes hormones and the size and location of the tumor. If you suspect you have an adrenal tumor, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for a detailed examination and treatment.

1. Symptoms caused by abnormal hormone secretion

Adrenal tumors may cause excessive or insufficient hormone secretion, leading to a range of symptoms. If the tumor secretes too much, it may cause Cushing's syndrome, which is typically characterized by abdominal obesity, moon face, and skin ecchymoses, primary aldosteronism, which is characterized by low potassium, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness, or pheochromocytoma, which is characterized by episodic hypertension, palpitations, headaches, and sweating. Insufficient hormone secretion may result in fatigue, low blood pressure, and decreased resistance.

2. Symptoms caused by tumor compression

Large adrenal tumors may cause nonspecific symptoms such as waist or abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and indigestion due to compression of surrounding organs or tissues. This situation usually occurs in patients with malignant tumors and needs to be taken seriously.

3. Systemic symptoms

In addition to local effects, adrenal tumors may also be accompanied by some systemic symptoms, such as unexplained rapid weight loss or gain, abnormal fatigue, decreased immune function, etc. If the tumor has a tendency to become malignant, there may also be symptoms such as fever and night sweats.

4. Other symptoms

Some adrenal tumors are associated with endocrine disorders, which may cause menstrual disorders, infertility, or male breast development. A small number of patients will show symptoms such as increased facial hair, deepening of the voice, and personality changes, which are related to hormone imbalances.

If any of the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to go to the hospital for detailed examination, including monitoring of hormone levels in blood and urine, imaging examinations such as CT and MRI, and tissue biopsy to clarify the nature of the tumor if necessary. Treatment methods include drug control such as drugs to control hormone levels, surgical removal of the tumor, radiofrequency ablation, etc.

Early detection and early treatment are the key to managing adrenal tumors. Regardless of the severity of the symptoms, you need to pay attention and seek medical attention in time to avoid worsening of the disease.