Carcinoid tumors usually do not have symptoms in the early stages. If you have symptoms, they may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Intestinal blockage, which cause nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain and change in bowel habits
- Intestinal bleeding, which may cause blood in the stool or black, tarry stool
- Anemia and fatigue
In about 1% of cases, carcinoid tumors can spread to the liver. This may cause a group of symptoms called carcinoid syndrome.
Symptoms of carcinoid syndrome usually are vague. It may be diagnosed first as other similar and more common conditions. Symptoms may not be present all the time. They may be brought on or made worse by certain foods, activities or medical procedures.
Carcinoid syndrome symptoms may include:
- Flushing (redness or warm feeling) of the face and neck
- Shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, tiredness or swelling of the feet and ankles
- Pain or full feeling in the abdomen
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
These symptoms do not always mean you have a carcinoid tumor. However, it is important to discuss any symptoms with your doctor, since they may signal other health problems.