Still in the Realm of Incurability: Methods for Early Self-Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the cancers known for its low survival rate and high risk. Especially as it progresses to stages 3-4, surgery becomes challenging, underscoring the importance of early detection and treatment. In this post, we will closely examine specific symptoms that may indicate the onset of pancreatic cancer, focusing particularly on changes in urine and stool color.

 

Changes in Urine Color: Cholangiocyturia

When pancreatic cancer develops, the color of urine may change to brown. This occurs because the cancerous mass in the pancreas compresses the duct, making it difficult for bile to be properly discharged. Bile, produced in the liver and transported to the duodenum, gets reversed into the bloodstream when the duct is compressed by cancer. Consequently, bilirubin from bile is excreted in urine, leading to the appearance of brown urine, a condition known as "cholangiocyturia." Research indicates that about 59% of pancreatic cancer patients experience such changes in urine color.

 

Pancreatic cancer has a low survival rate and is a formidable cancer, but attentive observation of symptoms and early diagnosis can enhance the chances of successful treatment.

 

Changes in Stool Color: Insufficient Bile

Pancreatic cancer can also alter the color of stool when bile is not properly discharged. Normal stool is brown, but in cases of insufficient bile, stool may become pale. This results in stool appearing white, similar to washed rice or mashed tofu, accompanied by increased oiliness, strong odor, and difficulty in flushing.

 

Jaundice: Increased Bilirubin Pigment

As pancreatic cancer progresses, the likelihood of jaundice increases. Jaundice is a symptom where the white part of the eyes and the skin turn yellow due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the body. While jaundice typically occurs after the advancement of pancreatic cancer, it can also manifest early if the cancer develops in a location where it affects the duct between the pancreas and the duodenum.

 

Other Symptoms: Weight Loss, Itchy Skin, Diabetes, etc.

Pancreatic cancer can present a variety of symptoms. If you experience itching of the skin, sudden onset of diabetes, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, rapid weight loss, or appetite loss, it is advisable to consider the possibility of pancreatic cancer.

 

Diagnosis and Treatment

Hospitals diagnose pancreatic cancer through ultrasound, CT scans, and other methods. Early diagnosis allows for surgery in stages 1-2, while decisions for surgery in stage 2-3 depend on individual circumstances. In stages 3-4, anticancer treatments become the primary approach. Currently, only 10-15% of pancreatic cancer cases are eligible for surgery, making the early detection of patients suitable for surgery crucial.

 

Pancreatic cancer has a low survival rate and is a formidable cancer, but attentive observation of symptoms and early diagnosis can enhance the chances of successful treatment. Paying special attention to changes in urine and stool color can serve as early indicators of pancreatic cancer. Therefore, seeking consultation and testing from medical professionals is crucial. Regular health check-ups and awareness of bodily changes are essential for maintaining good health.