How Do You Test For Pheochromocytoma?
Pheochromocytoma is characterized by excess production of epinephrine and norepinephrine, brought on by one or more growth formations on one or both adrenal glands. The result is high blood pressure in addition to several other possible symptoms. If you suspect you may have a pheochromocytoma, you should call your doctor without delay and learn how to test for it. Know what symptoms to report to your doctor. Note that symptoms may be unpredictable and increase in frequency and severity as the tumor grows. Common symptoms include heart palpitations, headache, sweating and/or flushing, unexpected weight loss in spite of an increase in appetite, pain in the chest or abdomen and high blood pressure. Count on your vital signs being taken and recorded, perhaps several times. These base measurements include blood pressure, heart rate, pulse and sometimes body temperature. Be prepared for a blood glucose test to measure the amount of sugar in your bloodstream. This test involves drawing a smal
