Opiates frequently cause constipation and may be taken with laxatives. If pain persists, a celiac nerve block may be considered. This involves the injection of alcohol into the nerves near the pancreas to block the sensation of pain. The injection can be given through the skin, during surgery or during an endoscopic ultrasound. Anemia a low red blood cell count Occasional Often related to chemotherapy.
Weight loss is common to almost all types of cancer.
The cancer cells compete with normal cells for nutrients. Also, tumors of the pancreas often interfere with digestion which furthur contributes to weight loss. It is difficult to treat this weight loss, especially loss of muscle mass. Nutritional supplements such as Ensure may be of benefit. Occasionally a PEG feeding tube is placed in the stomach during endoscopy.