Carcinoid Tumours and Gut Hormones: A Functional Medicine Perspective

When Gut Symptoms Are Dismissed Too Long

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) — including carcinoid tumours — arise from hormone-producing cells in the gut, lungs, and pancreas. They often grow slowly and produce non-specific symptoms for years before diagnosis. In Nigeria, where access to specialist gastroenterology is limited, many patients are managed as irritable bowel syndrome or food intolerance for years before the correct diagnosis is made.

Symptoms That Should Prompt Investigation

FXMed tip: If any of this sounds familiar, our Gut Repair Programme may be exactly what you need. Book a free assessment to find out where your health stands today.

• Episodes of flushing (sudden redness of face and upper chest), particularly without obvious trigger
• Chronic, watery diarrhoea that doesn't respond to dietary changes
• Wheeze without asthma diagnosis
• Abdominal cramping and right-sided abdominal pain
• Heart valve changes (carcinoid heart disease in advanced cases)

Biomarker Investigation

FXMed can arrange measurement of chromogranin A (CgA) — a sensitive marker for neuroendocrine tumours — and 24-hour urine 5-HIAA where indicated. These markers, combined with appropriate imaging referral, allow diagnosis that might otherwise take years.

Functional Support for NET Patients

Beyond conventional oncology management, NET patients have specific nutritional needs: niacin deficiency is common (tryptophan is diverted to serotonin production by the tumour), and malabsorption is frequent. FXMed's nutritional assessment and supplementation protocols support quality of life alongside specialist treatment.

Don't Accept Unexplained Gut Symptoms

If you have gut symptoms that haven't been properly explained, book a consultation with FXMed. We investigate thoroughly — and facilitate rapid specialist referral when findings warrant it.