Symptom 7: Flushing and Diarrhea
Another characteristic symptom of Medullary Thyroid Cancer is the combination of flushing (redness and a warm feeling on the skin) and diarrhea. This pair of symptoms is associated with the production of specific substances by MTC cells, including prostaglandins and serotonin, which can affect blood flow and bowel movements.
Flushing typically appears on the face and neck, and it’s often accompanied by a sensation of warmth or heat. Diarrhea, on the other hand, can vary in severity but tends to be persistent.
While these symptoms can occur due to a range of other conditions, the combination of flushing and diarrhea is fairly characteristic of MTC, especially in the advanced stages. If you experience these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. (7)