How To There is a diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome.
Carcinoid syndrome is a rare condition characterized by a group of symptoms that occur when a cancer releases hormones and proteins into your bloodstream.Most people are unlikely to experience it as it is usually caused by tumors in the gastrointestinal tract or lungs.If you watch for symptoms, you can diagnose carcinoid syndrome.These symptoms can be similar to other illnesses so you should have further testing.The medical team will treat it if you have it.
Step 1: You should watch for a flush on your face and neck.
Your skin will feel hot if you have light pink, red, or purple skin.Some people experience no reason at all, but it can also be triggered.For a short time, skin can be flushed, but it can also last for hours.Exercise, stress, and alcoholic beverages are some of the common causes of flushing.
Step 2: If you don't have asthma, watch for difficulty breathing.
Even though they don't have carcinoid syndrome, people who do may experience symptoms similar to asthma.This can include feeling like you can't breathe.During a skin flush, you may experience this.Talk to your doctor as soon as possible to rule out possible causes.If you can't breathe, seek emergency care.
Step 3: There are repeated episodes of diarrhea with no clear cause.
There are a lot of causes of diarrhea.Carcinoid syndrome can cause watery, loose stools that are accompanied by abdominal pains.It's a common symptom of people with the condition, but it doesn't mean you have carcinoid syndrome.Talk to your doctor to rule out other causes before you decide on carcinoid syndrome.
Step 4: You should look for blood vessels on your nose and upper lip.
The blood vessels are covered in veins that spread across the nose and mouth area.You should contact your doctor if you notice this on your face.
Step 5: There are episodes of rapid heartbeat, along with other symptoms.
Rapid heartbeat can last for a long time.If other symptoms are present, rapid heartbeat could be an indication of carcinoid syndrome.Changes in your heartbeat may coincide with a drop in blood pressure.
Step 6: There is a persistent cough when you haven't had a respiratory illness.
A persistent cough is possible if the tumor is in your lungs.If you haven't had an illness before, this is usually not a problem.You can also cough up blood.You could develop pneumonia if the condition goes undetected for an extended period of time.
Step 7: There is a chance of unexplained weight gain.
If you have carcinoid syndrome, you may gain weight with no explanation.If you keep track of what you eat and how often you exercise, your doctor can determine if the weight gain is due to a medical condition.You don't have carcinoid syndrome if you only have weight gain.
Step 8: Increased facial and body hair should be checked.
If you are a woman, chemicals in your bloodstream could increase hair growth on your face or body.Talk to your doctor if you notice extra hair.There are many causes of increased hair growth.Your doctor can help find the cause of your hair growth.
Step 9: Make an appointment with your doctor.
If possible, ask for the earliest appointment.You should bring a list of your symptoms.The doctor should know if your life has changed recently.Ask your doctor if there are any restrictions you should follow.If you are suspected of having carcinoid syndrome, your doctor will refer you to a specialist.
Step 10: Allow your doctor to perform a physical exam.
This is an in-office procedure to rule out other causes.Your doctor can look for signs of other conditions.They will decide if more tests are needed to find the underlying cause.
Step 11: A urine test is used to look for chemicals that have left the body.
The doctor will look for hormones with high levels.This will likely include a urine collection.If the doctor decides to collect your urine over a 24 hour period, you may be left out.If you want to collect your urine, you will need to urinate in a special cup or pan.When it's time to return the urine to the doctor, you can put it in the refrigerator.On a day you'll be home, it's best to do this.
Step 12: You can look for chemicals in your bloodstream by taking a blood test.
A simple blood test can tell the doctor a lot about your symptoms since the tumor is secreting chemicals into your bloodstream.The doctor will look for substances.The blood test won't hurt, but you may be a little uneasy for a while.
Step 13: If the doctor suspects a tumor, you should get an x-ray.
The doctor can use the tests to see if the tumor is growing.Depending on your doctor's recommendation, you can get a computed tomography or magnetic resonance image.If the doctor gives you a radionuclide before the test, they can look for a tumor.Radionuclide is a small amount of radioactive substance, so it will show up on the scans.This allows the doctor to check for tumors.The doctor will look for tumors in your abdomen.Your doctor may order an x-ray to look at the tumor.
Step 14: Allow the doctor to use a camera to look for the tumor.
Depending on where the doctor is looking for the tumor, the camera will be put down your throat or rectum.The doctor can use the camera to see and evaluate tumors.This test is likely to make you uncomfortable, but it won't hurt.
Step 15: If your doctor thinks a biopsy is necessary, you should agree to it.
The doctor will use a long needle to remove the tumors.They will use a machine to guide the needle.Your doctor can perform the procedure in the hospital or on an outpatient basis.The doctor will give you medication to make you feel better.The doctor may send a camera down your throat to take a sample from your lung.While you are under general anesthesia, a biopsy may be performed on the outside of the rib cage.If you are having surgery near the area, the doctor may take a sample from you.
Step 16: Undergo surgery to remove the tumor.
It's usually your best option to have surgery.A portion of your lung will be removed if the tumor is in it.The doctor will remove the tumor if it is in the gastrointestinal tract.The procedure will be a long one.It will relieve the symptoms for some people.If the cancer has spread, you may need more treatment.
Step 17: The symptoms of carcinoid syndrome can be caused by octreotide.
It is possible for your doctor to prescribe this medication to help you deal with your symptoms.The tumor is prevented from excreting more chemicals.Along with surgery, Octreotide is usually given.When the tumor has spread, these medicines are more often prescribed.Alpha-Interferon can help improve your immune system.The medications can help reduce the size of the tumor.
Step 18: If the cancer has spread, you should get treatment.
If the cancer has spread, it may be necessary to use carcinoid syndrome.Radiation therapy and immunotherapy can be used to treat a cancer that is progressing.The doctor will decide if it is the best option for you.If you are still unwell, your doctor may not recommend treatment.