Early symptoms and manifestations of pancreatic cancer

Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
Updated on February 08, 2025
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Pancreatic cancer is a type of malignant tumor that has seen an increase in incidence in recent years. The early symptoms and signs of pancreatic cancer include the following: many patients experience abdominal pain, which often radiates to the shoulder and back. Additionally, some patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer may develop jaundice in the skin and mucous membranes, and some may even exhibit bleeding spots. Moreover, some patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer may show symptoms of indigestion, experiencing repeated belching, nausea, and loss of appetite. Furthermore, the symptoms of early-stage pancreatic cancer are generally not typical because the tumor is located deep within the body and is small, hence it does not invade surrounding tissues. Therefore, the clinical symptoms are neither severe nor diverse.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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What causes pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor of the digestive system whose incidence has gradually increased in recent years. The exact cause of pancreatic cancer is still unclear, but there are several factors that can increase the incidence of pancreatic cancer: 1. Age factor: Statistical data shows that the incidence of pancreatic cancer increases with age. 2. Dietary factors: Clinical research data confirms that some poor eating habits, such as consuming too much high-fat and animal protein, can significantly increase the incidence of pancreatic cancer. 3. Unhealthy lifestyle habits: People who smoke heavily and drink alcohol over a long period have a significantly higher incidence of pancreatic cancer compared to the general population. 4. Other benign pancreatic diseases, such as diabetes: Statistical data indicates that among diabetic patients, especially those with Type 2 diabetes, there is a slight increase in the incidence of pancreatic cancer.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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Can patients with advanced pancreatic cancer eat watermelon?

Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer can eat watermelon. This is because many patients with advanced pancreatic cancer experience liver metastasis. Cancerous tissues damage liver cells, leading to impaired liver function and abnormal glycogen metabolism. Many patients may experience episodes of hypoglycemia, and eating watermelon can help replenish blood sugar, which is beneficial for the patients. Additionally, many patients with advanced pancreatic cancer suffer from a decline in appetite, and watermelon can stimulate their appetite and increase their food intake, which is also beneficial for their recovery. Thirdly, watermelon has a certain diuretic effect. Since many patients with advanced pancreatic cancer also suffer from hypoproteinemia, they are prone to edema. Eating watermelon can promote an increase in urine output, thereby helping to alleviate edema.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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What are the precursors of pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the digestive system clinically. Due to the hidden location of the pancreas, early symptoms of pancreatic cancer are generally not obvious. When individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer exhibit unexplained fatigue or abdominal discomfort, or rapidly progressive jaundice symptoms in a short period, and if patients also have diseases such as diabetes, the possibility of pancreatic cancer should be considered. An abdominal CT scan, MRI, and other radiological examinations should be completed quickly. For identified pancreatic space-occupying lesions, early biopsy through puncture or direct exploratory laparotomy should be performed as soon as possible for treatment.

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Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
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Is pancreatic cancer contagious?

Pancreatic cancer, like other malignant tumors, is not contagious. Therefore, in clinical settings, including patients' families and accompanying healthcare staff often ask doctors if they might catch the disease while interacting with cancer patients. It is important to educate that malignant tumors, including pancreatic cancer, are not contagious. Contagious diseases refer to chronic conditions like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tuberculosis, AIDS, etc., which can spread through contact with bodily fluids or blood of the affected individuals. However, malignant tumors are not infectious.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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How to deal with lower limb edema in advanced pancreatic cancer?

In late-stage pancreatic cancer, bilateral lower extremity edema should be considered possibly due to hypoalbuminemia, which leads to edema in both legs. It is also possible that cancer emboli in late-stage pancreatic cancer block the venous system, causing impaired venous return and resulting in bilateral lower extremity edema. To determine the specific cause, it is necessary to complete ultrasonographic examinations of the blood vessels in the lower limbs, as well as liver function tests, complete blood count, and others. After clarifying the diagnosis, appropriate treatment measures should be taken based on the different causes. For example, if the edema is caused by hypoalbuminemia, active supplementation with albumin and diuretics, among other treatments, is required. (Note: The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)