Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas, and it affects many people throughout the world. It is the second-leading cause of death from cancer in the United States. It is a relatively uncommon disease, with just one percent of all cancer deaths being related to pancreas cancer. Of those cases where pancreatic cancer is diagnosed, it is usually discovered on an early stage, making it very treatable. Yet, if pancreas cancer is not detected early, it can grow and spread rapidly, causing a significant loss of quality of life and overall disability.
The pancreas is a small organ. It is made up of three layers. The innermost layer is known as the endocrine tissue. This tissue secretes insulin, which is needed for all bodily functions such as digestion and energy storage. The second layer is known as the mesenteric tissue. The pancreatic juice is absorbed through this layer, while the blood returns to the liver.
Cancer that begins in any of these three layers is known as pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is different from other types of cancer in that the primary tumor is not involved in cell division. Instead, the cancer originates in the pancreatic duct. This duct becomes infected with cancer cells through the insulin that it secretes. Cancer that begins in any of these layers can spread through the entire body.
A person with cancer in the pancreas may have no symptoms. In fact, some of the symptoms that are common to pancreatic cancer include weight loss, fatigue, frequent urination, and excessive appetite. These symptoms can be attributed to diabetes or insulin deficiency. However, if a person has other abdominal symptoms that are unrelated to obesity, they should get a biopsy.
If cancer cells have managed to spread into the other areas of the pancreas, the effects could be deadly. Other symptoms that are common in people with this disease include nausea, constipation, jaundice, lethargy, and changes in blood sugar levels. If you have any of these symptoms and are suspicious that you might have a pancreas tumor, talk to your doctor immediately.
Once a tumor is found in the pancreas it must be removed by surgery. There are two ways to remove a tumor from the pancreas. The first involves removing a small piece of tissue with a laparoscope. The second method involves making a small incision under the diaphragm and removing the entire tumor. The medical professionals who perform the surgery will monitor the patient's glucose levels closely.
When the cancer is removed the surrounding tissue can also be removed. Two of the most common pieces of tissue that are removed are the nerves and the glandular tissues. Removing the tumors does not always mean that all of the cells are removed. Sometimes additional treatment may be required to keep the cells from growing back.
If you have been diagnosed with pancreas cancer, it is very important that you see your doctor promptly. It is important for you to do everything you can to manage the disease as best as you can. Although no cure is available for this type of cancer, there are some treatments available that will make your symptoms easier to live with. Your doctor will be able to help you choose the best course of action for you and your condition.
Some people might find it helpful to get checked by a doctor right away if they are experiencing any of the early symptoms of this type of cancer. Early detection makes it much easier to treat the cancerous cells. If you notice any unusual changes in the way you feel or in the type of pain that you are experiencing, you should definitely mention these symptoms to your doctor. Many times people are misdiagnosed with other conditions, that they actually suffer from.
There are some things that your doctor can do in order to help manage your pancreas cancer. Your doctor might recommend that you lose weight, refrain from drinking and smoking, reduce your levels of stress and take medication in order to control your cancerous cells. Your doctor can even refer you to a nutritionist in order to find ways to eat better and live healthier.
Your doctor might suggest a surgery in order to remove part or all of your pancreas. The surgery for pancreas cancer is very specific and has several risks. Before you agree to have any type of surgery for your cancer, you should discuss this option with your doctor extensively. Sometimes, cancer does not respond to traditional treatments and surgery might be a last resort for treating it.