
What is a pheochromocytoma?
A pheochromocytoma is a type of tumor that makes hormones that raise your blood pressure. Most pheochromocytomas grow in your adrenal glands. Your adrenal glands are located on top of your kidneys.
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Some pheochromocytomas are cancerous but most aren't
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Pheochromocytomas are often caused by genetic diseases
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Pheochromocytomas usually happen between ages 20 and 40
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You have high blood pressure that sometimes comes and goes
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You may have headaches, sweating, and feel your heart beating fast and pounding
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Doctors usually do surgery to take out a pheochromocytoma