This booklet covers the different procedures used to control pancreatic cancer symptoms with practical information about your hospital visit and returning home. Includes a section about second opinions, clinical trials and questions to ask your doctor and a glossary to explain some of the terms used.
Jaundice, develops when the bile duct becomes blocked and yellow pigment builds up (bilirubin). This can be very itchy and can be irritating. It can also make skin feel hot and uncomfortable.
This itching is called pruritis. Jaundice can also cause nausea and vomiting as well as digestive problems and tiredness.
There are many ways of treating jaundice and your medical team will help you decide which is the right one for you. One option is to be fitted with a stent to remove the blockage and keep the bile duct open. Another option is a surgical procedure called a pancreatic biliary bypass. The surgeon will bypass the blockage and allow bile to flow from your stomach to the small intestine which should solve the jaundice. Surgical procedures for jaundice are discussed in more detail in the following pages.
The symptoms of jaundice can be eased using medications if these surgical approaches are not appropriate to help drain your bile duct. Antihistamines and skin care are also important to relieve the itching. Keeping skin cool and using moisturising creams to stop it drying out can help relieve the symptoms.
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| Information Product № | PCA0013v1 | Published | 15/10/2019 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last Updated | 08/09/2022 | Next Review Due | 08/09/2025 |