Pancreatic cancer fears

Hello everyone

I am new here and reading others' posts to the forum I have been both terrified (by the heartbreaking scenarios some are facing) and encouraged (that I am not alone in my fears and all-consuming anxiety).   
 

I am a previously fit and healthy female of 54.  Since Christmas I have been experiencing a range of symptoms which have worsened over time: mild indigestion, dull ache in right side under ribs and more recently the same  in my mid-back, tiredness and now some albeit minor weight loss  all of which, seem to me, based on extensive online research, to match with pancreatic cancer and very little else.  
 

When I first saw my doctor at the end of December she thought I presented with symptoms of  all too common gallstones and I was reassured.  She referred me for bloods and ultrasound, mainly  for my peace of mind.  Other than slightly raised amylase  my results were normal and on a repeated blood test the amylase had lowered which was further reassurance.  The ultrasound showed no gallstones and a normal thin-walled gallbladder.  Although still experiencing intermittent symptoms, I felt it might just take a while for things to settle if my gallbladder or pancreas had been irritated.  However iby mid Feb my symptoms seemed more frequent and the dull ache in my side although not constant had spread to my back.  Also I was finding I am less hungry, so  I went back to the doctor (was seen by different doc) who referred me for a chest x-ray (which was clear) and a CT scan which I had yesterday,  
 

I fully understand the dangers of Googling symptoms and also, I am aware that at the moment - in lockdown, with time on my hands and a lack of the normal distractions - I am probably hyper-focussed on my symptoms  but they match so well with pancreatic cancer, particularly as they  have steadily worsened.  I also know it is one of the most difficult cancers  to diagnose, frequently not picked up by initial diagnostics  and also to treat so I am terrified and already trying to prepare myself mentally for the worst news.

Just wondered if any of this resonates with anyone else.

Thank you.

  • I feel your worry. I have had problems on/off with my digestive system for years but symptoms always settle down after 2-3 days max. This did not happen last time, with chronic diarrhoea, some sickness, pain in right side which can go right through to my back. This started early December and by Xmas had been to my doctor twice with various test taken. FIT test came back clear, calprotectin level slightly raised (now normal), bloods OK.

    Symptoms did not improve but as tests were clear no referrals via NHS. Luckily, although reluctantly, I can afford to fund some private health care, so booked. Colonoscopy not completed due to loop in my colon, so last week had a CT Colonography. Between these 2 tests, did manage to see a doc via NHS, who thinks it might be gallstones, thyroid issues etc so follow up blood tests only taken this week.

    Like you googling symptoms and they are also getting worse. Worried sick and sure I have pancreatic cancer as a lot of my symptoms match. Getting my results of CT Colonography on Monday, but taking panic attacks, crying a lot, don't want to eat.....probably making myself ill. Fingers crossed for both of us, take care.

     

  • Hi Karma84

    Thanks so much for your response.  Helpful to know others are in similar situation, not that I'd wish this on anyone!   I am also going from moments of tears and almost unbearable anxiety to almost calm acceptance (which is bonkers I know when I don't even have a diagnosis yet) but somehow expecting the worst seems like a protective mechanism.   Hope you hear encouraging news on Monday.  

  • Had my symptoms 2 yrs 3 months feel so unwell floating pale stools pain in stomach and back x gastriscopy colonoscopy full body ct scan stool elastase test amylase tests plus many other blood tests all normal doc hasent a clue what it is apart from ibs x I'm convinced its PC just waiting to die feel so ill 

  • So sorry to hear that. 
     

    I am realising just how many people dont get a quick or definitive diagnosis for worrying symptoms of this sort.  Having been lucky enough to have had good health until the onset of my symptoms I had naively assumed doctors mostly have the answers but seems inot.

  • Hi. I read a wonderful previous post on here yesterday which really resonated with me and simply said you’re not alone, we’re all here with you every step of the way. It was so uplifting and I hope it brings you the same comfort it brings me.  

    My mum is 70. She is suffering with bad back pain, constipation and diarrhoea, vague stomach pain, chronic indigestion, and has lost over 3 stone in weight. Her brother died of pancreatic cancer three years ago, and her sister was diagnosed last week with the same.

    Mum had her scan on Monday and we’re now playing the waiting game for results. Every time the phone rings or I hear the postman, my heart is in my throat. But as Mum keeps telling me, there’s no point worrying over what hasn’t happened yet, so try to stay positive and I really hope you hear positive news very soon.

    Podge.x

     

  • Thank you Podge. I hope your Mum's news is also positive.  You are so right, the people here on the forum are incredibly positive and supportive considering everyone here is dealing with some hearbreak of their own.  I find it really helpful to share here without constantly burdening my loved ones with my worries and latest theories!

  • Got my results this morning....all negative.

    It would appear that I have a very long and loopy colon, which according to internet search, may be helped by a change in diet to include more roughage. Going to give this a try and see if it assists and that any changes helps with my worrying and anxiety as well. 

    Fingers crossed everyone on here gets some good news and is able to get results and hopefully manage their condition....good luck to you all :-)

  • That is good news.  Hope the diet re-boot works well for you!

     

  • Brilliant news! So pleased for you.

    Podge.x

  • Thank you very much. Everything crossed for your mum, your family has been through more than enough. Please take care and if you feel like it, let us know. XX