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Pancreatic cancer
How to deal with lower limb edema in advanced pancreatic cancer?
In late-stage pancreatic cancer, bilateral lower extremity edema should be considered possibly due to hypoalbuminemia, which leads to edema in both legs. It is also possible that cancer emboli in late-stage pancreatic cancer block the venous system, causing impaired venous return and resulting in bilateral lower extremity edema. To determine the specific cause, it is necessary to complete ultrasonographic examinations of the blood vessels in the lower limbs, as well as liver function tests, complete blood count, and others. After clarifying the diagnosis, appropriate treatment measures should be taken based on the different causes. For example, if the edema is caused by hypoalbuminemia, active supplementation with albumin and diuretics, among other treatments, is required. (Note: The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)
Can patients with advanced pancreatic cancer drink yogurt?
Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer can drink yogurt. Yogurt contains fats and proteins, which are not particularly high in content, and also contains probiotics that can effectively aid digestion. It is beneficial for relieving symptoms such as poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Drinking a moderate amount of yogurt can be beneficial for the body. Patients in the late stages of pancreatic cancer should adhere to a light diet, avoid greasy foods, and avoid drinking pure milk and soy milk, among others. A light diet should be the main focus.
Can patients with advanced pancreatic cancer eat watermelon?
Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer can eat watermelon. This is because many patients with advanced pancreatic cancer experience liver metastasis. Cancerous tissues damage liver cells, leading to impaired liver function and abnormal glycogen metabolism. Many patients may experience episodes of hypoglycemia, and eating watermelon can help replenish blood sugar, which is beneficial for the patients. Additionally, many patients with advanced pancreatic cancer suffer from a decline in appetite, and watermelon can stimulate their appetite and increase their food intake, which is also beneficial for their recovery. Thirdly, watermelon has a certain diuretic effect. Since many patients with advanced pancreatic cancer also suffer from hypoproteinemia, they are prone to edema. Eating watermelon can promote an increase in urine output, thereby helping to alleviate edema.
Dietary Taboos for Patients with Pancreatic Cancer
Regarding the dietary restrictions for pancreatic cancer patients, there are no specific prohibitions. The main recommendation is to avoid what we typically refer to as junk food, such as barbecued foods and pickled products. Aside from avoiding these foods, it is important to focus on a nutritious and balanced diet, with a good mix of both meat and vegetables. Additionally, because pancreatic cancer patients may experience symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the upper abdomen, the diet should primarily consist of light and easily digestible foods. In doing so, while ensuring that the patient receives sufficient nutrition, it is best to consume foods that are easy to digest and nutritionally balanced.
What should be done if pancreatic cancer has not metastasized?
If pancreatic cancer has not metastasized, then it might be in an early stage. In this situation, consultation with a hepatobiliary surgeon is necessary for the surgeon to assess whether curative surgery can be performed. If the surgeon determines that curative surgery is feasible, this should be the preferred treatment method. Post-operatively, based on whether there are symptoms of recurrence or metastasis, such as vascular tumor thrombi or lymph node metastases, decisions concerning the necessity for adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy should be made based on these high-risk factors for recurrence and metastasis.
The difference between pancreatic tumors and pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic tumors include benign and malignant tumors, with malignant pancreatic tumors commonly referred to as pancreatic cancer. Benign pancreatic tumors include insulinomas, pancreatic cysts, lipomas of the pancreas, or fibromas, which are relatively rare in clinical settings. Whether benign or malignant, including pancreatic cancer, symptoms can include upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice, among other clinical signs. However, distinguishing between benign and malignant tumors requires pathological examination.
Can pancreatic cancer patients eat eggs?
The dietary principles for pancreatic cancer are: First, eat nutritionally rich foods; second, pay attention to reasonable combinations; third, adjust the dietary structure; and fourth, appropriately include some fungi. Patients with pancreatic cancer should first consider nutrition in their diet, and can eat more high-protein, high-carbohydrate foods, such as fish, liver, eggs, milk, vegetable soup, etc., to supplement the nutrients and energy needed by the body. Based on their actual physical condition, they should adjust their diet structure and ensure nutritional balance. Therefore, it is acceptable for pancreatic cancer patients to eat eggs.
Is there still a cure for pancreatic cancer with liver metastasis?
Pancreatic cancer with liver metastasis is considered to be in the advanced stage, but some patients can still benefit from treatment in terms of survival. They can choose chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and oral anti-angiogenesis medications, among others. The choice of specific medications should take into account the patient's overall condition and various other factors. The effectiveness of the treatment varies from person to person; some patients may benefit from the treatment, while others may not see significant improvement, but these options are still worth considering.
How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?
Ultrasound, CT, MRI, ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography), PTCD (Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangio Drainage), angiography, laparoscopy, tumor markers measurement, cancer gene analysis, etc., are significantly helpful in confirming the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and determining whether it is resectable surgically. Generally, ultrasound, CA199, and CEA can be used as screening tests. Once pancreatic cancer is suspected, a CT scan is necessary. If the patient has jaundice, especially severe, and a CT scan cannot confirm the diagnosis, ERCP and PTCD can be considered. If internal drainage is successful, surgery can be delayed for one to two weeks for patients with severe jaundice. The diagnostic value of MRI for pancreatic cancer is not superior to CT. If pancreatic cancer has been confirmed but it is uncertain whether it can be surgically removed, choosing angiography and laparoscopy is also clinically meaningful.
What does pancreatic cancer ascites mean?
When pancreatic cancer causes ascites, particularly a large amount, we can collect the ascites to search for cancer cells. This generally indicates peritoneal metastasis, or metastasis above the liver which can also cause substantial ascites. In such cases, it typically signifies that the disease has progressed to a late stage, classified as stage IV. Patients in this category are unable to undergo surgery and their treatment primarily involves chemotherapy. If the patient's overall condition is good, chemotherapy can be chosen. If the patient's condition is relatively poor, targeted therapy or oral anti-angiogenesis medications may be selected to control the pancreatic cancer and manage the tumor. If the patient's condition is particularly poor, the approach involves placing a peritoneal drainage tube to remove the ascites and providing the best possible symptomatic supportive care.