You may be wondering what are Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of conditions, including liver disease and gallbladder disease. If you are experiencing pain in the abdomen, it is possible that you have pancreatic cancer. Pain may be characterized as dull or aching, and it may occur above or below the belly button. Other symptoms may be characterized by redness or swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor.
Most people with pancreatic cancer seek medical care because of pain. This pain often comes from the tail or body of the pancreas. The pain usually increases when seated, is more severe when lying down, or increases after meals. Back pain is another common symptom, and it is usually present in the middle of the back. It can also occur on imaging tests. When you have back pain, you should consult your doctor.
These symptoms usually come and go and will vary from person to person. Sometimes they become worse if you lie down or are pregnant. However, you should try to sit up straighter to alleviate the pain. If you develop these symptoms, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will be able to recommend an appropriate treatment for you based on your condition and the results of the tests. You may also need to undergo a scan to rule out other causes of the symptoms.
Stage 0 pancreatic cancer is also known as carcinoma in situ. It is characterized by abnormal cells that are present in the pancreatic tissue but have not spread to other organs. When it spreads, it may affect the major blood vessels nearby. It can also spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Fortunately, most people with this type of cancer are cured by surgery. And, for some, the symptoms of pancreatic cancer may not be noticeable until the disease has spread to other organs or tissue.
Although pancreatic cancer symptoms may vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, they can be vague and may be unrelated to other medical conditions. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer may be similar to those of other conditions, and you should consult your doctor if you notice any of them. But if you experience more than one symptom over time, it is highly likely to be something else. This is why it is vital to understand the signs of pancreatic cancer early on.
Pancreatic cancer is a serious medical condition, and it can be difficult to diagnose. If you are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, it may be helpful to join a pancreatic cancer support group. Speaking with others who have experienced the same diagnosis can be helpful and empowering for your mental and emotional health. You may also want to consider reading patient information booklets published by Pancreatic Cancer Action. These information booklets explain the different stages of the disease and the treatment options available.
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer may include jaundice, abdominal pain, or loss of appetite. Despite this, about ten percent of patients with pancreatic cancer experience painless jaundice. The disease can also cause yellow skin or whites of the eyes, and urine and poo may be darker than normal. Jaundice is more common in people with pancreatic cancer that affects the head of the pancreas. When the pancreas is affected, the tumour can block the bile duct, which carries bile into the small intestine. This will result in dark urine and stools. Additionally, the cancer can lead to itching and discomfort.
Different types of pancreatic cancer affect different types of glands. The exocrine glands produce digestive enzymes that aid in the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Most pancreatic tumors affect the exocrine part of the pancreas, while the endocrine glands are clusters of cells called islets of Langerhans. Pancreatic cancer can affect both of these glands, and a problem with either will cause diabetes.
A specialized procedure called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may be needed to diagnose pancreatic cancer. During the procedure, a plastic or metal tube is passed through the throat, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. A dye is injected into the pancreatic duct and the bile ducts, and images are captured. After the procedure, a biopsy needle may be inserted into the affected area.
