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Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare digestive disorder. Zollinger Ellison Syndrome comes when you have tumors in the small intestine, pancreas, or both. The tumors lead your stomach to release too much acid and result in a painful peptic ulcer.
The occurring tumors on Zollinger Ellison Syndrome are not cancerous. The precise cause of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is not known. In some people, it is due to a gene problem called multiple endocrine neoplasias.
Risk Factors of Zollinger Ellison Syndrome
Zollinger Ellison Syndrome is typical in men. The things that increase the risk are:
- Genetic problem or family history of MEN 1.
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
- Children of Adults who have MEN 1 are also at risk.
The Symptoms of Zollinger Ellison Syndrome.
- Burping, bloating, and belly pain.
- Discomfort or burning sensation in the chest.
- Lack of energy.
- Vomiting
- Loose stool
- Lack of hunger
- Bloody stool and vomit
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain, sometimes burning in nature
- Severe heartburn
- GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
- Intestinal bleeding
Seek medical help right away as soon as you notice these symptoms. Zollinger Ellison Syndrome is life-threatening so, avoid overlooking the situation. Take all the warnings and recommendations from medical providers.
How to Diagnose Zollinger Ellison Syndrome?
If you have the symptoms associated with Zollinger Ellison Syndrome, your doctor may measure your stomach acid levels. You may go through:
- Blood testing to measure the level of gastrin hormone to confirm the diagnosis.
- Urine sample
- Stool sample
- X-ray
- Ultrasound and imaging test to determine tumors and gastrin levels.
- Upper endoscopy to look at the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
- Another testing can also determine the signs of MEN 1 and other tumors.
Treatment for Zollinger Ellison Syndrome
The goal is to control stomach acid and help the stomach heal. This can be done with Acid reducers, H-1 blockers, and Proton pump inhibitors. Doctors may also recommend surgery for tumors but it is not applicable for cancer cells.
- Medication. Drugs called proton pump inhibitors are used to reduce stomach acid production and heal ulcers.
- Surgery. This process will remove the Gastrinomas.
- Chemotherapy. Gastrinomas shrink and gastrin levels in the blood are lowered by anticancer drugs.
Zollinger Ellison Syndrome has no specific preventive measure. It is treated through surgeries, chemotherapy, and medications. If you have ZES symptoms, ensure to seek medical attention right away to prevent worsening the condition. During the treatment, manage your diet to avoid interfering with your medications.
