Insulinoma is a rare type of neuroendocrine tumor that forms in the pancreas and produces too much insulin. The symptoms typically arise from low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) caused by the excess insulin. These symptoms can vary from person to person and often improve after eating.
The common symptoms of insulinoma include:
General Physical Symptoms
- Weakness and Tiredness: Many individuals report feeling very tired and lacking energy a lot of the time.
- Hunger and Sickness: A persistent feeling of hunger, sometimes accompanied by nausea or a general unwell feeling, can be present.
- Sweating and Tremors: Episodes of excessive sweating and involuntary shaking or trembling (tremors) are common.
- Palpitations: You might experience a racing or pounding heart, known as palpitations.
Neurological and Cognitive Symptoms
- Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches can be a symptom.
- Problems with Your Eyes: Vision disturbances, such as blurred or double vision, can occur.
- Forgetfulness and Confusion: Difficulty remembering things or a general state of confusion are often reported due to the brain being deprived of sufficient glucose.
Behavioral Changes
- Behaving in a Way That Isn't Normal for You: Due to the effects of low blood sugar on the brain, individuals might exhibit unusual or uncharacteristic behavior, which can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions.
Summary of Insulinoma Symptoms
Symptom Category | Specific Symptoms |
---|---|
Physical | Weakness and tiredness, hunger, sickness, sweating, tremors, palpitations |
Neurological/Cognitive | Headaches, eye problems (e.g., blurred vision), forgetfulness, confusion |
Behavioral | Uncharacteristic or abnormal behavior |
These symptoms can often be intermittent, appearing when blood sugar levels drop, especially after long periods without food or during exercise. If you experience a combination of these symptoms, particularly if they are relieved by eating, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis.