Do My Symptoms Indicate Carcinoid Syndrome or Endocrine Tumors?
I’m a 23-year-old female with a history of chronic appendicitis, diagnosed through a CT scan in 2021 (though surgery was never performed). Last year, between September and November, I experienced severe pelvic and abdominal discomfort without a clear diagnosis, undergoing a vaginal ultrasound that showed no issues besides a possible bicornuate uterus. Additionally, I suffer from chronic migraines that tend to intensify during my menstrual cycle and when I took hormonal birth control, along with persistent lower back pain. Presently, I notice that my cheeks become flushed and warm; while it’s not as severe as the flushing I’ve seen online, I’m uncertain about the underlying cause. Along with this, I experience a racing heartbeat and find myself out of breath when singing or in awkward positions. I also deal with breast and chest discomfort (I have an ultrasound scheduled for that tomorrow), mid to lower back pain, low abdominal and pelvic pain, and occasional mild diarrhea. Right now, I am on metronidazole for bacterial vaginosis and I’m not taking any other medications. Having just relocated across the country, I don’t have an established medical provider and I’m unsure about whom to consult regarding my symptoms if they are worrisome. Should I pursue this further? I want to maintain perspective without allowing anxiety to take over, so I thought sharing my situation here might help clarify what’s potentially happening.
Answers (1)
6/25/2025, 6:50:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your symptoms are concerning, and it’s important to address them carefully. The flushing, racing heartbeat, breathlessness, and abdominal discomfort you describe could relate to various conditions, including hormonal changes, anxiety, or potential endocrine concerns such as carcinoid syndrome. While carcinoid syndrome itself is rare, the accompanying symptoms merit careful monitoring and further evaluation.
Explanation: Flushing of the cheeks, a racing heartbeat, and shortness of breath could indicate several underlying conditions, including hormonal fluctuations (especially given your history with migraines and potential issues with birth control) or stress-related responses. Conditions such as carcinoid syndrome often present with flushing and gastrointestinal symptoms, but such a diagnosis would typically require specific hormone tests and imaging to confirm.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Journal: Start documenting your symptoms in detail, noting the frequency, duration, and any triggers (like meals, stress, or specific activities). This can help identify patterns and will be valuable information for any healthcare provider you see.
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Proceed with Your Scheduled Ultrasound: Since you already have an ultrasound for your breast and chest discomfort, it’s important to attend that appointment. Make sure to share all your symptoms with the technician.
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Establish Care with a New Provider: Consider finding a new primary care provider or an internist who can review your history holistically and guide you through diagnostic steps for your current symptoms. This might include blood tests, imaging, or referrals to specialists in endocrinology or gynecology.
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Self-Care for Symptoms: While you await further evaluation, ensure you stay hydrated, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and consider mild physical activities to maintain comfort without overexertion.
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Emergency Warning Signs: If you experience worsening symptoms such as severe chest pain, fainting, severe abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing, pursue immediate medical attention.
Remember, it’s completely normal to feel anxious about these symptoms, and seeking clarity is important for your peace of mind. Take it step by step, and prioritize your health and comfort.
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