What are the symptoms of lung carcinoid tumors?

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What are the symptoms of lung carcinoid tumors?

About 25% or more of people with lung carcinoid tumors don’t have any symptoms. Often these types of tumors are found when you have diagnostic tests for another illness, such as a chest X-ray for a lung infection.

When symptoms are present, usually there is coughing or wheezing. The cough might produce blood in the phlegm or sputum. If the tumor is large enough to block an air passage, a person might develop an infection called post-obstructive pneumonia.

Carcinoid syndrome is a condition related to overproduction of certain hormones by the tumors' neuroendocrine cells. It’s uncommon to have the carcinoid syndrome from a lung carcinoid tumor. Symptoms of carcinoid syndrome may include:

  • Facial flushing (warmth) and redness.
  • Wheezing, shortness of breath or asthma-like symptoms.
  • Weakness.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Weight gain.
  • Increased amount of body and facial hair (hirsutism).

The symptoms of carcinoid syndrome may be caused by other disorders. It’s important to see your healthcare provider to find out the actual cause of the symptoms.

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