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Carcinoid Syndrome

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.

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.

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