Paranoid newby

[DJTrev]

Paranoid newby

Postby DJTrev » Sat Dec 14, 2019 7:34 am

Hello

Let me begin by saying I am convinced that I have PC.My father died of it and I do believe it is hereditary.

I am currently being treated for neuralgia of the chest as a possible result of a previous bout of shingles which affected the left side of my chest.I have to admit that the little shocks of pain do follow the path of the area of the shingles and the itching skin and tenderness along with a pain under my shoulder blade.These are all symptoms common with this kind of neuralgia (google is your friend) but there are other apparent symptoms that concern me.Slightly extended tummy,lower back pain,severe pain,unlike the shocks of pain,in the central upper part of my chest.Having said that I do have to admit that this to all intents and purpose is the extent of my symptoms.I am not jaundiced,my stools are not pale and floaters (quite the opposite really,dark and increased volume) no sudden weight loss or lack of appetite,I already take a medication for acid reflux (that works well) and no feelings of sickness.Yet at 78 years old I am paranoid that I have PC.

Three months ago I was a 50 year old in a 78 year old body but now I feel like a 85 year old in a 78 year old body and it is depressing me somewhat.

I apologise for the fact that I have not put this post together very well.

[PCUK Nurse Jeni]

Hello DJTrev,

Thank you for your post on the forums.

I am sorry to hear that you have had some health related concerns of late, and have been suffering from shingles and neuralgia after this. I wonder whether your gp has given you any indication as to how long this pain might be expected to last? And are you taking any medication for this pain at all?

I am also sorry to hear that your life has been affected by pancreatic cancer, and that you lost your father to this disease. Naturally, you will be vigilant when it comes to this, and any worrying symptoms.

Trev, have you been able to chat this through with your gp at all? And has there been any concern over the symptoms which are unrelated to the shingles? Have you had any blood tests done of late? Has the gp been concerned at all with regards to the bloating, back pain and chest pain? Have you mentioned the fact that you are feeling very different to what you did three months ago?

Trev, the hereditary aspect of pancreatic cancer is more applicable when there is a history of two or more relatives in the same blood line with the disease - you mention your dad - are you aware of any other case of pancreatic cancer in your dad's bloodline?

You can read a bit more about family history here:

https://www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/information-and-support/facts-about-pancreatic-cancer/family-history-of-pancreatic-cancer/

With regards to the chest pain, have you discussed this with your gp? Are you taking any medication at all for the chest pain and back pain?

It would certainly be wise to book an appointment with the gp to discuss these symptoms, especially if they are persisting for some time.

I hope this helps?

Kind regards,

Jeni.

Jeni Jones

Pancreatic Cancer Specialist Nurse

Support Team

Pancreatic Cancer UK

email: nurse@pancreaticcancer.org.uk

support line: 0808 801 0707