What Causes Irritation In Upper Abdomen?

Posted on Mon, 12 Jan 2015

Question: I'm 34, male, 6'2 175. Lbs. I've had an irritation in my upper belly on the left of my sternum and am concerned about pancreatic cancer. I'm active, vegetarian and run 20+ miles a week, but I drank a lot in college and until I was 28. I had labs (CBC with panel) drawn last month and everything was in normal range. Would there be signs of pancreatic ca in my labs?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (42 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You need clinical examination and ultrasound of abdomen.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX

Pancreatic abnormality is firstly screened by ultrasound.Past history of alcohol doesn't necessarily indicate pancreatic abnormality.
Pancreatic cancer may present with painless jaundice,vague abdominal pain with lump etc.

You need proper clinical examination and firstly ultrasound of abdomen should be done.If there is any abnormality detected then contrast CT scan of abdomen should be done.
It is good that that you don't take alcohol at present and you are so active.

Don't worry about cancer.You should go for clinical examination and investigations,it will relieve your doubt.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your query
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar