Carcinoid Syndrome Symptoms
9. Fatigue
Fatigue can be defined as a sensation of constant tiredness that is very profound and has no identifiable cause by the patient (i.e. overworking, lack of sleep). Patients with chronic carcinoid syndrome may develop heart disease. The high levels of serotonin that are secreted by the tumor may cause fibrosis or thickening of the heart valves, which can impair their functions. This process may eventually affect the right side of the organ, causing right-sided heart failure. Patients with an advanced heart condition may exhibit fatigue, shortness of breath, and edema or swelling of the extremities.
Carcinoid heart disease occurs in around half of the patients with carcinoid syndrome. It is more common in people with carcinoid tumors that start in the small intestine.
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