The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys and secrete a variety of hormones. Masses within the adrenal glands will often not cause any symptoms if they do not cause any changes in hormonal secretion. Masses that secrete hormones, on the other hand, will cause different symptoms depending on what hormones they secrete.
Cushing's Syndrome
Some masses in the adrenal gland can secrete adrenal hormones, Medline explains. Adrenal masses that secrete the hormone cortisol can lead to a condition known as Cushing's syndrome. Cushing's syndrome can lead to obesity in the upper body and the face becoming red, full and rounded, which is also known as moon facies. Patients can also develop thin skin, bruise easily and develop purple marks on their thighs, breasts and abdomen. Other symptoms of this kind of cortisol-secreting adrenal mass include back pain, bone and muscle pain, and a collection of fat between the shoulder blades. Women may develop abnormal body hair growth and develop abnormalities in their menstrual cycle, whereas men may become impotent. Additional symptoms include headache, fatigue and elevated blood pressure.
Hyperaldosteronism
Some adrenal tumors secrete a hormone called aldosterone, the University of Virginia Health System explains. The elevated aldosterone levels cause the kidneys to absorb more sodium and excrete additional potassium. Patients with this kind of adrenal mass may have elevated blood pressure, which goes down when the patient goes from a lying to a standing position. Patients may also experience excessive urination, extreme thirst, muscle weakness and constipation as a result of the electrolyte imbalances. Personality changes and headache are also potential symptoms.
Pheochromocytoma
A pheochromocytoma is a fairly rare adrenal gland mass that is located in the adrenal medulla, UrologyHealth explains. This type of adrenal gland mass secretes the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine. These hormones are part of the body's "fight or flight" response and can result in elevated blood pressure. Other symptoms include rapid beating of the heart and palpitations, excessive perspiration and headache. Patients may also experience anxiety or nervousness, nausea, chest pain, muscle tremors, fatigue and weight loss.
