Is Your Recurring Back Pain a Sign of Pancreatic Cancer?

Q: Is Your Recurring Back Pain a Sign of Pancreatic Cancer?

Dear Mr. <br>Cookie： <br>1. <br>There are many causes of back pain! Common causes include myofascial pain syndrome, degenerative joint disease, herniated discs, spondylolisthesis, and piriformis syndrome. <br>There are also less common causes, such as ankylosing spondylitis, ente

I experienced pain again on September 1 and September 3 of this month. I'm very concerned that this might be a sign of pancreatic cancer or other organ-related cancer?

Doctor, I have been experiencing back pain that started on August 5th, and then I had consecutive episodes of pain on September 1st and September 3rd.
This is the third time I have had this back pain.
I would like to ask if this could be a sign of pancreatic cancer or other organ malignancies.
Last year, there was a report about a senior media personality who started having back pain six months ago but did not seek medical attention.
By the time he went to the hospital due to unbearable pain, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, which was already at an advanced stage, and he passed away shortly after.
I am concerned if my back pain, having occurred three times, could be a precursor to pancreatic cancer.
I am quite worried.

Binggan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/03

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Cookie:
1.
There are many causes of back pain! Common causes include myofascial pain syndrome, degenerative joint disease, herniated discs, spondylolisthesis, and piriformis syndrome.
There are also less common causes, such as ankylosing spondylitis, enteropathic spondylitis, abscesses, fractures, and cancer, among others.
If the pain is in other areas of the back, there may be different potential causes.
Pancreatic cancer is certainly one of the differential diagnoses; however, it is considered a less common cause.

2.
In medicine, pancreatic cancer is difficult to diagnose early due to its unique location and the often subtle or even absent early symptoms, which can lead to a diagnosis being made too late.

3.
Given your age and the limited information provided, while the possibility of pancreatic cancer cannot be completely ruled out, it is not highly likely.
I recommend that you first discuss this with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action.

Reply Date: 2019/09/03

More Info

Recurring back pain can be concerning, especially when you hear stories about serious conditions like pancreatic cancer. However, it’s important to understand that back pain can arise from a multitude of causes, many of which are not related to cancer.

Firstly, back pain is a common complaint and can be attributed to various factors such as muscle strain, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, arthritis, or even conditions like sciatica. In fact, the most common causes of back pain are musculoskeletal issues rather than internal organ problems. While pancreatic cancer can cause back pain, it is relatively rare and usually presents with other symptoms as well.

Pancreatic cancer is often referred to as a "silent" disease because it typically does not show symptoms until it is in advanced stages. Early symptoms can be vague and may include weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), changes in appetite, and abdominal pain. Back pain associated with pancreatic cancer is often described as a dull ache that may radiate from the abdomen to the back, but it is usually accompanied by other more specific symptoms.

In your case, having experienced back pain three times over a short period does not necessarily indicate pancreatic cancer. The fact that your pain is recurring may suggest a musculoskeletal issue rather than a serious internal condition. Moreover, your age, overall health, and any additional symptoms you may be experiencing are crucial factors in assessing your risk.

If you are concerned about pancreatic cancer or any other serious condition, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your medical history and perform necessary diagnostic tests. These tests may include imaging studies such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, which can help rule out or confirm any abnormalities in the pancreas or other organs.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that while stories of individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after experiencing back pain can be alarming, they are not the norm. Most cases of back pain are benign and can be managed with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to feel anxious about recurring back pain, it is important to approach the situation with a balanced perspective. Back pain alone, especially if it is not accompanied by other concerning symptoms, is unlikely to be a sign of pancreatic cancer. However, if you have ongoing concerns, do not hesitate to seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation and peace of mind. Remember, early detection and intervention are key in managing any health issue effectively.

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