Pheochromocytoma Questions

For people with a pheochromocytoma, questions of all sorts may come to mind; however, the shock and stress that often follow a cancer diagnosis can make it difficult for some people to remember the questions they wish to ask the doctor. Often it helps to make a list of these questions before an appointment. The following article contains lists of pheochromocytoma questions people with the cancer may wish to ask their doctor.

 

Pheochromocytoma Questions: An Introduction

Many people with a pheochromocytoma want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care. They want to learn all they can about the tumor and their pheochromocytoma treatment options. However, the shock and stress that often accompany a pheochromocytoma diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything to ask the doctor.
 
Often it helps to make a list of questions before an appointment with the doctor. To help remember what the doctor says, people may take notes or ask whether they may use a tape recorder. Some also want to have a family member or friend with them when they talk to the doctor -- to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.
 

Pheochromocytoma Questions to Ask Before Treatment

Questions a person may want to ask the doctor before treatment for pheochromocytoma include the following:
 
  • What kind of cancer do I have?
  • Has the cancer spread? What is the pheochromocytoma stage?
  • Do I need any more tests to check for spread of the disease?
  • What are the pheochromocytoma treatment choices? Which do you recommend for me? Why?
  • What are the expected benefits of each kind of treatment?
  • What are the risks and possible side effects of each treatment?
  • What is the treatment likely to cost?
  • How will treatment affect my normal activities?
  • How often should I have checkups?
  • Would a pheochromocytoma clinical trial (research study) be appropriate for me?
     
(Pheochromocytoma Questions Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD