Back pain and stomach issues- terrified of pancreatic cancer

Hey, I have had pain under my left shoulder blade for a while now. I also armpit pain occasionally but no swelling. I have also got really bad acid reflux and bloating, and pain in my upper abdomen. I have had the back and stomach issues for about 5 months now varying in badness. My uncle had pancreatic cancer 4 years ago and he only lasted 8 months with it. Having read my symptoms could be linked to it I am climbing the walls with panic.

I'm only 23 so it's seen as a lower risk but there's always exceptions and I just can't seem to shake this feeling. Doctors have given me yet another course of anti-acids and physio but honestly I feel like just calling 111 or the gp and telling them my fears. I don't want to come across as a silly anxious person but I honestly just feel terrified and I don't know if it will pass without them considering it and testing me really.

 

Sorry I just don't know what to do does anyone have any suggestion in terms of the doctor or reassurance or anything?

  • Hi Jzaday,

    I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing these worries. It's good to hear you've seen the doctor. It will only be them who can advise on this, so if you feel your symptoms are continuing and/or you remain worried, it's best to try to speak to them again.

    If you haven't already, you can make a note about any symptoms you've noticed and any information regarding timelines, so you can fully discuss it with them and hopefully get any support or further reassurance needed.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi, I have these symptoms and I have necrosing pancreatitis. Was caused by a gallstone entering the pancreas . 
    I was originally diagnosed reflux/  gastritis told to take gaviscon . 
    I would get in touch with the gp , ask for further investigation. I put up with it for over a year , numerous trips to a&e .  I had an mrcp, ultrasound and CT scan . I also now  follow a strict low fat diet .  
     

  • Hi 

    I hope you have decided to speak with your doctor, I too had most of what you are describing and I lost my mother to pancreatic cancer three years ago so when I had pain I told my doctor of my fear and he immediately set about getting me tested and fortunately it was not pancreatic cancer it was a very enlarged gallbladder and a cancerous lump in the sigmoid both have now been removed and I am now 14 days post opp so please tell your doctor your fears they won't laugh at you they will help Good luck