Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with carcinoid syndrome?

Carcinoid syndrome is primarily associated with tumors that secrete hormones, particularly serotonin, which can lead to a variety of symptoms due to the effects of these hormones on various bodily systems. Among the common symptoms of carcinoid syndrome are flushing of the face or neck, which is due to the release of serotonin and other vasoactive substances, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and changes in weight.

Shortness of breath can occur in some cases, particularly if the carcinoid tumors have metastasized to the lungs, which is consistent with the syndrome’s respiratory manifestations. The presence of these symptoms reflects the systemic effects of the excess hormone release on bodily functions and can vary among patients depending on tumor location and hormone levels.

In contrast, severe headaches are not a typical manifestation of carcinoid syndrome. While headaches can occur in some individuals due to other factors, they are not a direct result of the pathophysiology associated with carcinoid tumors or the hormonal changes caused by them. This distinction clarifies why severe headaches are not classified among the common symptoms of carcinoid syndrome.