One striking fact: a small adrenal tumor can trigger big swings in blood sugar and even mimic diabetes. This archive summarizes our September 2024 post explaining how pheochromocytoma — a rare hormone-secreting tumor — can change glucose control and what to watch for if you or someone you care for has unexplained high blood sugar.
Pheochromocytomas release excess catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline). Those hormones raise blood sugar by pushing the liver to dump glucose and by blocking insulin’s action. That means people can develop new high blood sugar or see existing diabetes become much harder to control. You might notice sudden spikes in glucose, especially during episodes of headache, sweating, or racing heart.
Not every person with a pheochromocytoma will get diabetes, but the tumor’s hormone surges often cause stress-like responses that make insulin less effective. If glucose levels jump without an obvious cause, it’s worth considering whether an adrenal issue could be involved.
Watch for a pattern: episodic high blood pressure, pounding heartbeat, severe headaches, sweating, and weight loss alongside rising glucose levels is a red flag. If that sounds familiar, bring it up with your doctor. They may order a simple blood or urine test for plasma-free metanephrines or 24-hour urine metanephrines — these detect the hormones the tumor makes.
Imaging (CT or MRI) follows positive lab tests to locate the tumor. Coordination between your endocrinologist, surgeon, and diabetes care team matters. Before surgery, doctors usually start alpha-blockers to lower blood pressure and reduce surgical risk. That medication, and later beta-blockers, can change insulin needs — blood sugar may drop after tumor removal, so insulin or other drug doses often need quick adjustment.
Practical glucose tips while diagnosing or treating pheochromocytoma: check blood glucose more often during symptomatic episodes, keep a simple log of readings and symptoms, and carry quick carbs for sudden low sugar after treatment. If you use insulin, be ready for dose changes after the tumor is treated — glucose levels can fall rapidly once hormone excess stops.
Our September article breaks this down with real-world examples and clear steps to help patients and caregivers spot the link between adrenal tumors and diabetes. If unexplained changes in blood sugar come with typical pheo symptoms, don’t ignore them — asking for specific hormone testing can speed up diagnosis and treatment, and often improves glucose control after the tumor is removed.
This article explores the intriguing connection between pheochromocytoma, a rare adrenal gland tumor, and diabetes. It dives into how this tumor affects hormone levels, leading to potential impacts on blood sugar regulation. Readers will find tips for diagnosis and management, making complex medical information accessible and helpful.