I am 42 years old and am seeking help and advice.
I have been feeling unwell since approx May this year and have had episodes of facial flushing and feeling that I was ‘burning up’. I have a constant feeling like I’m fighting something off and also have a constant headache. I am also experiencing stomach and back pain, and feel nauseous most days. I have also had a tickly cough for about 3 weeks. More recently the facial flushing has gotten worse and this is now there most of the day, every day. My stools are also fairly loose. I have had a recent Full Blood Count, which also looked at my liver and kidney function and it all came back normal. I have also been referred for a Gastroscopy. I have read so much stuff online, and the thing I keep getting back is ‘Carcinoid Syndrome’. This has terrified me to say the least. I have discussed my concerns with my GP, who told me ‘flushing’ covers the body and makes you feel hot? This is not what I’ve read online. My flushing is on my chest and face and is hot (but my body cold). Please can anyone share their experiences with me on their symptoms and how you were diagnosed. Many thanks x
Hi and welcome to the online community
I'm sorry to hear that you've been feeling unwell since May and have had various symptoms which you're worried could mean that you have carcinoid syndrome. It sounds like your GP is taking you seriously as s/he has arranged for various tests which so far have all come back as normal which is great news. Do you have a date yet for your gastroscopy?
Although google is great for all sorts of information right now google is not your friend. We've all done it, gone on looking to reassure ourselves but come off feeling even more anxious than when we went on. Probably my best advice would be to try not to search for your symptoms online because it will always come up with a cancer diagnosis even if all you have is a cold.
Macmillan have this information on the symptoms of NETs and this about carcinoid syndrome. Hopefully you'll have neither of these and there will be a non-cancerous reason to explain your symptoms.
Do come back and let us know how you get on.
x
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