Why must caffeine-containing foods be restricted in pheochromocytoma?

• A. They Cause Dehydration
• B. They Increase Catecholamine Release and Blood Pressure
• C. They Cause Weight Gain
• D. They Cause Gastrointestinal Upset

Answer: (B)

In pheochromocytoma, there is already excess catecholamine release causing episodes of high blood pressure and rapid heart rate. Caffeine acts as a stimulant that can provoke further release of catecholamines and boost sympathetic nervous system activity, which raises blood pressure even more. This can trigger a hypertensive crisis, headaches, palpitations, or arrhythmias in someone with this tumor. Restricting caffeine-containing foods and beverages helps prevent these dangerous surges and supports safer preoperative and overall management. Other issues like dehydration, weight gain, or GI upset aren’t the primary risks in this context.