Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms

Question: What are the symptoms of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: It is very difficult to diagnose pancreatic cancer as the pancreas is so deep within the body and symptoms vary depending on the exact location of the tumour in the pancreas and which cells or function of the pancreas is affected by the tumour or cancer. It is principally a disease affecting middle-aged and older patients but this is not always the case and the diagnosis can be missed in younger patients. Unfortunately there are frequently no symptoms at all at the very early stages. The tumour may have grown significantly before it causes any obvious recognised symptoms. Unfortunately the symptoms of pancreatic cancer can also be quite vague and non specific ie may be caused by many other more common and less serious conditions. Diagnosis can be delayed as the GP or specialist tries to rule out other causes such as hepatitis, gall stones, irritable bowel syndrome and stress. Not everyone has every symptom, it depends very much on the location of the tumour in the pancreas. For example jaundice can be an early sign of a tumour in the head of the pancreas affecting the bile duct and back pain can be a late sign of a tumour in the body or tail of the pancreas possibly affecting the nerves and spine. Jaundice may also be a late sign of a tumour that has developed initially further away from the bile duct and then grown or spread until it causes obstruction of the bile duct. Symptoms include,,, General discomfort or pain around the stomach area, sickness, owel disturbances, diabetes, jaundice, skin itching .

Question: Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer? My husband is 48 years old and has been dealing with discomfort in his upper left abdominal area for over a year now. He's had a colonoscopy and upper gi within the past year. His mother passed away from pancreatic cancer on 9/30/2007 (less than 3 mos. ago). He is very gassy, doesn't appear jaundiced and has a normal appetite. He went in last week for a second upper gi, sonogram and x-ray of his abdomen. They took biopsies during the endoscopy (didn't do this during the first upper gi) and the results aren't back yet. I've been to all the websites with info on symptoms but want responses from those with first hand knowledge - is ongoing discomfort (not pain) in the upper left abdomen indicative of pancreatic cancer (along with the other symptoms I describe)? I know my husband is still considered young for this disease, but he seems to be exhibiting suspicous symptoms... i need to be prepared. my mother-in-law and father both died from cancer...i don't want to lose my husband. oh, his grandfather (his mom's dad) died from pancreatic cancer on 10/12/2007 (within two weeks) fullness, heartburn, indigestion (these are more of my husband's long-term symptoms). He lays on his stomach following every meal so "the food will go down". He's also taking medication for anxiety and depression.

Answer: Hello, The symptoms that you indicate your husband has - abdominal discomfort, gassy, heartburn, indigestion - are considered medically non-specific, and are very common in the general population. As you have probably have been reading, very often the first signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer are also fairly non-specific as well. A final point to consider is that pancreatic cancer - despite being very serious and nearly uniformly fatal disease - is relatively uncommon accounting for only 2-3% of all cancers. So the bottom line is that it is VERY unlikely that your husband has pancreatic cancer - but unfortunately not impossible. To be honest though, I think that his chances of having pancreated cancer are only slightly higher than yours or mine, and this increse would only be because of his family history (although there is very litle increased risk or genetic predisposition in this disease) and because of his symptoms. I should also note that the vast majority of the time patients do not develop symptoms of pancreatic cancer until very late, so the fact that he has had these symptoms for more than a year, make pancreatic cancer even less likely. Based upon your description of your husband suffering from anxiety and depression, it would be most likely that these problems are causing his symptoms than any malignancy. In fact, the vast majority of symptoms of bloating/fullness/abdominal discomfort are caused by stress and other psycholgic factors (I know - I've had them! - and seen many others as well). Therefore, I would try my best not to worry. Continue following closely with your doctor to make sure you are on top of your husband's condition, and that any malignancies or other pathologies are caught. And finally, try to control his anxiety and other conditions (as well as your own anxiety!) Good luck!

Question: What are the symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer? how CAN it be prevented/cured?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer has been called a "silent" disease because early pancreatic cancer usually does not cause symptoms. If the tumor blocks the common bile duct and bile cannot pass into the digestive system, the skin and whites of the eyes may become yellow, and the urine may become... Cancer of the pancreas is curable only when it is found in its earliest stages, before it has spread. Otherwise, it is very difficult to cure. However, it can be treated, symptoms can be relieved, and the quality of the patient's life can be improved. Pancreatic cancer is treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Researchers are also studying... For more information about pancreatic cancers and its causes, symptoms, treatments and more, visit http://www.imedisearch.com/results.php?cof=FORID%3A11&hq=-buy+-achat+-intitle%3Acheap+-intitle%3Acheapest+-intitle%3A%27ON-LINE%27+-sales+-wholesale+-inurl%3Aorder+-intitle%3Adiscount+-inurl%3Adiscount+-intitle%3Aofficial+-intitle%3Aoffer+-intitle%3Apills+-inurl%3Acost+-inurl%3Abuy+-inurl%3Astore+-inurl%3Apurchase+-inurl%3Aprice+-intitle%3Abuying&q=Pancreatic+Cancer&sa=Search&cref=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.imedisearch.com%2Fxml%2Fcontextpublic.xml#1241

Question: I have shooting pin pain in my upper right abdominal area, is this a symptom of pancreatic cancer or disease? I've had it for a long time and I am just wondering because I know that upper abdominal pain is a symptom for pancreatic cancer. My pain is SHOOTING PIN PAIN I was wondering if this is a symptom for pancreatic cancer Please Help

Answer: . I suggest to you that you go to the doctors, if anything so that you can get piece of mind. My mom died of pancreatic cancer just last Wednesday and I think that if you ever have pain in the (bread box area) upper stomach, you should have it checked. Good luck and think positive, be brave and get it checked.

Question: can someone tell me the symptoms of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Yes, and that someone is your doctor. It would seem likely, since you are asking the question, that you have concerns about some of your symptoms. You will notice that many of the responses to questions about cancer are very technical and almost certainly pasted from medical web sites. However, that is only helpful if you know for certain that this is what you are suffering from. In that case, you could have Googled the same answers for yourself. The whole gastroenterology system is complex and can throw up "red herrings". So, for your own peace of mind, make an appointment with your GP and if it is necessary, be referred to an expert.

Question: i need to know some signs a nd symptoms of pancreatic cancer im not getting enough info online? my sister past away on the 17 of july suddenly and i think this may have been a contribitor to her death i would like to know more about this disease

Answer: Was your sister in tremendous pain that arose rather quickly before her passing? Were her eyes very yellow? If the answers to these questions was no then pancreatic cancer was not part of the picture. Scroll down and read the History Section under Clinical. http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic1712.htm

Question: what are symptoms of pancreatic cancer? and bowel cancer?

Answer: According to Mayo clinic: Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer often don't occur until the disease is advanced. When signs and symptoms do appear, they may include: * Upper abdominal pain that may radiate to your back * Yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice) * Loss of appetite * Weight loss * Depression Take care.

Question: Common complaints of Pancreatic Cancer patients? I need to write a care plan for nursing school. And i would like to focus on a common symptom that Pancreatic cancer patients suffer from.

Answer: Pain is number one, of course. I think number two is the mental health aspect because of the terrible prognosis. Number three might be constipation due to the digestion and meds.

Question: Possibly Pancreatic cancer? I have been seeing doctors since December 2008. Many of my symptoms are fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, depression which are many of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer. I also have GERD. I have had an ultrasound done and nothing came up. I am 16 years old, so that kind of lowers my chances of having it. Should i be worried about the potential of having it and should i ask my Doctor about getting a test?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer does not have symptoms until it is advanced and not very likely at your age. If your doctor felt you needed to be tested they would.

Question: pancreatic cancer ?? i need help ..? hi .. i'm bella ,.. and i have all the symptoms of pancreatic cancer .. how can i tell my parents?? i'm i going to die ?? pls no bad comments .. and i really do have all it's symptoms .. and there's this pain n my stomach .. it's sort of gnawning .. and it's getting even worst at night ..

Answer: What to Do If You Have Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer, see your doctor. Even if they are not related to pancreatic cancer in the end, they are symptoms that do warrant a medical evaluation. More than likely, you do not have pancreatic cancer. You should know that pancreatic cancer is rare -- only 38,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer were diagnosed in 2008.

Question: I think my husband has Pancreatic cancer No insurance at all where can he be treated were in Texas? My husband 58 has been diagnosed with Diabetes and Neuropathy but he has all the symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer plus lost over 50 lbs and counting down, and the Dr wants a CT Scan done but who can afford that ? 3,000--6,000 dollars worth of test !! Where can I go and what can I do to get him the help that he needs he is laying in bed in pain and suffering and that is very hard to deal with day in and day out help if you know something PLEASE!!!!!!! We have filed for SSDI and DHS says NO HELP with Medicaid or Medicare until he gets approved by SS

Answer: That would have been my suggestion, the process shouldn't take but a couple of weeks due to catastrophic illness. Going through the same thing at this time with my mother in law...May God Bless You and Your Family. She's currently having her radiation done at Ben Taub, but will go else where for her Chemo.. An SSI Resource personell assured us by the end of this treatment she should have her Medicaid.

Question: Pancreatic Cancer ? 10 points? Ok i'm 15 and i keep hearing this buzz about pancreatic cancer and it gets me worried that in some time of my life that i will get the cancer. What are the symptoms and ways to prevent from getting pancreatic cancer. What age should i get x-rays for it. I don't know why, but i had some feeling that i will die young. I hope i don't, but it's just a feeling

Answer: Pancreatic cancer is sometimes called a "silent killer" because early pancreatic cancer often does not cause symptoms. But on the rare occasion that it does cause symptoms they may include: Pain in the upper abdomen, Loss of appetite, jaundice (yellow skin/eyes, dark urine) and Trousseau sign, in which blood clots form spontaneously in the portal blood vessels. People may develop pancreatic cancer due to these different risk factors including: Age (particularly over 60), Male gender, Smoking, Diets low in vegetables and fruits, Diets high in red meat, Chronic pancreatitis, Drinking alcohol excessively and Gingivitis or periodontal disease. There are no proven facts for preventing pancreatic cancer. Hope that helps ease your worries.

Question: Can teens have pancreatic cancer? What are the symptoms?

Answer: Yes, it is possible (while rare for some) for cancer to strike at any age. Symptoms include: -Loss of appetite (anorexia) -bloating -diarrhea -Rarely may present with new diabetes in a person with weight loss and nausea -jaundice (yellowing of the skin) If you have the above symptoms or are worried, just mention it to you doctor.

Question: What are some signs of pancreatic cancer? Recently I have lost my appetite. I'm a 26 year old man, 5'11" and 190 lbs. I can only eat very small portions because I never feel hungry anymore. I have noticed a distinct drop in my energy level, especially after work. My job is not that demanding and I never used to be tired after work. I'm always tired. I get between 6-8.5 hours of sleep each night, which was fine for me until a couple months ago. Also, my bowel movements have been floating consistently for about two weeks, which I'm told could be an early warning sign for pancreatic cancer. I'm just worried because I know this just kind of sneaks up on people without many symptoms. Does anyone know of any other potential warning signs for this kind of cancer? Or am I just being ridiculous?

Answer: it is unlikely you have cancer. you may have gout or some other internal function issues, or caught VD or something else... you need to get a round of blood tests and the doctors can follow up on your problem. it is possible you are suffering a chemical imbalance and just need some meds...

Question: The final days of pancreatic cancer? My grandmother is currently suffering from pancreatic cancer, she was diagnosed in January 08 and was ineligible for treatment for she was too weak physically. We have had Hospice come in to our home two to three times a week to monitor her, and I think she may be down to her final days. What are symptoms like near the end? Has anyone seen the decline themselves and can you give me a general timeline of symptoms? My grandmother is currently suffering from pancreatic cancer, she was diagnosed in January 08 and was ineligible for treatment for she was too weak physically. We have had Hospice come in to our home two to three times a week to monitor her, and I think she may have only a few days. What are symptoms like near the end? Has anyone seen the decline themselves and can you give me a general description of symptoms?

Answer: I am so sorry about your Grandmother. Here is a list I gave my husband to watch for when my time of death nears. What to expect in the last days of life Your loved one may begin to show other signs when death is imminent. This is called the active phase of dying and usually begins about three days before death. How people die varies greatly, but you can expect some of the common signs, including: Cool arms and legs. While the hands, arms, feet and legs will feel cool to the touch, your loved one's trunk will feel warm. Bluish coloration. Fingers, earlobes, lips and nail beds may turn blue. Purple coloration on the legs. Also called mottling, this blotchy coloring is one of the clearest signs that death is approaching. No longer eating or drinking. Your loved one may not feel like eating, or he or she may no longer be able to swallow. Congested breathing. Noisy breathing is sometimes called the "death rattle." As secretions from the lungs build up, your loved one may no longer be able to cough up these secretions. Eventually the secretions will dry up because your loved one's body may become dehydrated after he or she stops eating and drinking. Medications can control congestion if your loved one feels uncomfortable. Irregular breathing. Breathing patterns may change in depth and rate. Your loved one may also stop breathing for several seconds at a time. Keep in mind that your loved one generally isn't aware of these changes. Discolored urine. If your loved one stops taking in liquids, there will be less urine and it will be darker in color. Incontinence. As muscles that control bowel movements and urination relax, your loved one may experience incontinence. Blurred vision. His or her eyes may appear glassy and unfocused. Limited ability to communicate. Your loved one may lose the ability to speak. He or she most likely can still hear you. Confusion and agitation. This can be subtle or more severe, involving jerking motions, hallucinations or delirium. It is not unusual at this stage to see loved ones in the room with them that have previously passed on. May fidget with bed covers as in trying to remove lint that isn't there. For your loved one: Try these comfort measures: Has arms and legs that feel cold to the touch, but the trunk feels warm Use a blanket or sheet to keep him or her warm. Is no longer eating or drinking Resist the urge to force your loved one to eat or drink. Have water on hand with a straw, since lifting a cup may become difficult. Keep your loved one's mouth moist with a sponge, swab or a spray bottle. Use lip balm or petroleum jelly on the lips. Has congested breathing or a rattling sound when breathing Keep the head of the bed raised and reposition your loved one every few hours. Has labored breathing Direct a fan toward your loved one's cheek, try opening a window to let in fresh air, or try other sitting positions that may ease labored breathing. Has incontinence Keep your loved one clean and dry using incontinence pads or a catheter. Reposition him or her every few hours. Has reduced or blurry vision Use soft lighting. Stand near the head of the bed so that your loved one can see you better. Has an overactive sense of hearing Avoid loud noises and television. Try soft music. Is no longer able to speak Your loved one can still hear and feel. Keep talking in a soothing voice and hold his or her hand. Shows disorientation, confusion Speak in short phrases. Repeat the names of people in the room often and remind your loved one of the date and time. Is agitated Create a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Have a minimal number of people in the room. Work with your loved one's doctors and nurses to make death as symptom-free as possible. Many signs and symptoms of imminent death can be treated, such as pain, anxiety and delirium. While these treatments won't stop your loved one from dying, they can make the process easier for both of you. Report any signs and symptoms that you are unsure of and don't hesitate to ask questions if you're unsure of what's going on. Even in a coma, your loved one can still hear you. Though he or she might be unable to speak or might seem asleep, continue talking in a soothing voice. Reassure your loved one that you'll stay nearby. Hold your loved one's hand or stroke his or her hair. In the last few days of life, consider what your loved one would want. Was he or she someone who enjoyed having lots of friends and family around? Perhaps you could invite family over to sit with your loved one to share stories and reminisce. If your loved one was a solitary person who enjoyed quiet time alone, perhaps that would make him or her most comfortable. The final surge of energy Often when people are dying, they will reach a period of time when it seems they're getting better. Your loved one may wake up and may be able to communicate with you. These surges can last for a few hours to a few days. Though it can be confusing for you to see your loved one with renewed vitality, keep in mind that this is a normal part of the dying process, and your loved one may not actually be getting better. He or she may soon return to illness. The final surge of energy is often a good time to gather your family and close friends to say final goodbyes. Keeping vigil For many families, keeping vigil near the dying loved one's bed is an important show of support and love for the dying person. Whether you do this depends on your own customs and beliefs. If you decide to keep vigil, continue speaking to your loved one. Express your love for him or her, but also let your loved one know that it's all right to let go. When keeping vigil, understand that some people prefer to die alone. People who were independent or private in life may choose the same in death. Don't hesitate to step away from your loved one's bedside from time to time to allow for this.

Question: chronic pancreatis or pancreatic cancer? im 19 non smoker non drinker male symptoms are -pain in left abdomen that radiates to my side from time to time usually worse during meals -medium coloured urine thats hot and burns -stools are normal not clayed -pain in left shoulder at times -no lump from what i can feel i have had blood tests and i read somewhere CA-19 or something like that could be found if its pancreatic cancer also ur blood sugar levels would be not good but my blood tests came back normal ive also had an endoscopy and colonoscopy plus a scope down my wing wang and all tests have come back fine i have no clue what this is maybe ibs? but what ive been reading is its close to being my pancreas or liver

Answer: It would be unusual to have either at your age, but it would show up on CT if you have one. You poor thing, you have already been scoped everywhere possible I would think I CT would have been done. A CA-19-9 is used as a tumor marker for pancreatic cancer and it only would have been run if your doctor asked for it and it is unlikely he did as he would have had to suspect it to order it. You could try keeping a diary of everything you eat, drink and do and keep track of which pains you have and when, it may make it easier to find what it is that is causing your problems. Good luck.