Symptom 8: Diarrhea – A Surprising Symptom of Advanced MTC
Chronic diarrhea is another symptom that can present in advanced MTC. MTC can lead to an overproduction of hormones by the thyroid gland, which can, in turn, speed up the gut’s activity and result in diarrhea. This symptom might seem unrelated to a neck lump or hoarseness, but it can be an essential piece of the diagnostic puzzle.
Chronic diarrhea can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, leading to dehydration and nutritional deficiencies if left untreated. It’s crucial to manage this symptom effectively while also addressing the underlying cause, i.e., MTC.
A healthcare provider can provide recommendations to manage diarrhea, including dietary changes and over-the-counter medications. In addition, prompt diagnosis and treatment of MTC can help to alleviate this symptom. (8)