Carcinoid syndrome can lead to heart damage or heart disease. Up to one-third of those with carcinoid syndrome may develop thickening in their cardiac valves.Talk to your doctor about any carcinoid syndrome symptoms you experience, as it is important to manage carcinoid syndrome to reduce risks and prevent complications. Treatments can help alleviate the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and certain foods, may also help in managing symptoms, as certain food items and stress can trigger them.
The signs and symptoms of carcinoid syndrome include:
Flushing of the skin and face (without sweating)
Abdominal pain
Feeling bloated
Diarrhea
Wheezing or other trouble breathing
Fast heartbeat
Blood pressure fluctuations
Heart murmur
Lower extremity swelling (if the hormones affect the right side of the heart and its valves)
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS OF CARCINOID SYNDROME
Carcinoid syndrome can lead to heart damage or heart disease. Up to one-third of those with carcinoid syndrome may develop thickening in their cardiac valves. Talk to your doctor about any carcinoid syndrome symptoms you experience, as it is important to manage carcinoid syndrome to reduce risks and prevent complications.
Treatments can help alleviate the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and certain foods, may also help in managing symptoms, as certain food items and stress can trigger them.
CARCINOID CRISIS
Some patients experience severe, sudden, and even life-threatening symptoms called a carcinoid crisis. A carcinoid crisis, which affects a person’s blood pressure and heart rate, typically occurs during surgery, invasive procedures, or in times of severe stress.
A carcinoid crisis can be prevented and treated with hormone therapy. To prevent problems, you may need to take medication to manage hormone production before surgery or other procedures.
Nonfunctional and functional nets
Learn more about functional and nonfunctional NETs in these sites.