This booklet for patients and carers describes pancreatic cancer, its causes and symptoms. It gives detailed information on the diagnostic tests used and the stages of pancreatic cancer. It includes a section on what to ask your doctor, where to go for further information and a glossary to explain many of the terms used.
This booklet covers the different procedures used to control pancreatic cancer symptoms with practical information about your hospital visit and returning home. Includes a section about second opinions, clinical trials and questions to ask your doctor and a glossary to explain some of the terms used.
Jaundice is common in people with pancreatic cancer. It develops when the bile duct becomes blocked by the tumour and yellow pigment (bilirubin) builds up in the body that is normally excreted (passed).
We are currently reviewing this page. If you have any questions please contact healthinfo@panact.org
Jaundice may be painless, but it can be very itchy and irritating. It can also make the skin feel hot and uncomfortable; this is called pruritis. Jaundice can also cause nausea and vomiting as well as digestive problems and tiredness.
The most obvious sign is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes; jaundice may also cause your urine to be dark yellow and/or itching of the skin.
You should seek urgent medical advice if you are worried that you have the signs of jaundice.
You will need to be referred for tests to identify the cause. NICE guidelines suggest that anyone with jaundice should be investigated further.
There are many ways of treating jaundice and your medical team will help you decide which is the right one for you. One option is to be fitted with a stent to remove the blockage and keep the bile duct open. Another option is a surgical procedure called a pancreatic biliary bypass. The surgeon will bypass the blockage and allow bile to flow from your stomach to the small intestine which should solve the jaundice.
The symptoms of jaundice can be eased using medications if these surgical approaches are not appropriate to help drain your bile duct. Antihistamines and skin care are also important to relieve the itching. Keeping skin cool and using moisturising creams to stop it drying out can help relieve the symptoms.
The information provided in this site, or through links to other websites, is not a substitute for medical or professional care and should not be relied upon as such. Read our disclaimer.