The decline of pancreatic cancer to death can vary from person to person, but there are some general steps that may occur.
- Diagnosis: Pancreatic cancer is often not diagnosed until it is in advanced stages, because it does not cause any symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may be vague and can be mistaken for other conditions, such as indigestion or heartburn.
- Treatment: Treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Surgery is the most common treatment for early-stage pancreatic cancer, but it is not always possible. Other treatments for pancreatic cancer include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.
- Side effects of treatment: Treatment for pancreatic cancer can cause a number of side effects, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and pain. These side effects can be managed with medication, but they can also make it difficult for the patient to function normally.
- Complications: Pancreatic cancer can cause a number of complications, including jaundice, bleeding, infections, and blockages in the digestive tract. These complications can make the patient very sick and can shorten their life expectancy.
- Death: Pancreatic cancer is a very aggressive cancer and most patients die within a few years of diagnosis. The average survival rate for pancreatic cancer is about 6 months.
It is important to remember that everyone’s experience with pancreatic cancer is different. Some people may live for many years with the cancer, while others may die very quickly. There is no way to predict how long someone will live with pancreatic cancer, but there are many things that can be done to help improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
Thanks Bard
Describe symptoms of pancreatic cancer with a patient who isn’t doing chemo:
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas, an organ that produces digestive enzymes and hormones. It is a very serious cancer, and it is often not diagnosed until it is in advanced stages.
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer can vary depending on the location of the tumor and how far it has spread. Some common symptoms include:
- Jaundice: This is a yellowing of the skin and eyes that is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a waste product that is produced by the liver. ✔️ football size obstruction passed 4/29
- Pain: This pain is often felt in the upper abdomen and can radiate to the back. NA
- Weight loss: This is a common symptom of pancreatic cancer, and it can be caused by a number of factors, including loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. ✔️
- Fatigue: This is a feeling of tiredness or weakness that is often caused by the cancer itself or by the side effects of treatment. ✔️
- Diarrhea: This is a frequent, loose bowel movement that can be caused by the cancer itself or by the side effects of treatment. NA
- Constipation: This is a hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass. NA
- Nausea and vomiting: These are common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. ✔️ not doing chemo
- Bloating: This is a feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen.
- Indigestion: This is a burning pain in the upper abdomen that is often caused by food not digesting properly.
- Loss of appetite: This is a decrease in the desire to eat. ✔️ dentures don’t fit, medication side effects, nausea and vomiting, belching
- New-onset diabetes: This is a condition in which the body cannot produce or use insulin properly. NA
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Pancreatic cancer is a very serious cancer, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival.
If a patient with pancreatic cancer is not receiving chemotherapy, their symptoms may get worse over time. The cancer may grow and spread to other parts of the body, causing more pain, fatigue, and other problems. In some cases, the cancer may cause death.
