After a diagnosis Finding out about a cancer diagnosis can be very stressful and you will have a lot of questions. Here are some ways that may help you cope and get the right treatment and support: ● Educate yourself about your cancer to help you make decisions about your care. Share any questions or concerns with your specialist doctor, who will be able to advise you about the details of your cancer and your treatment options. They will also be able to recommend trusted sources of further information. ● Build a support network of trusted friends and family who can help you with practical tasks or provide a listening ear. If stress, anxiety or depression are causing significant problems in your daily life, talk to your doctor who may recommend professional counselling. ● Consider joining a support group specifically for pancreatic cancer to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Ask your doctor for information on pancreatic cancer support groups in your area or online.   During treatment Treatment for pancreatic cancer can extend over a long time period.  Side effects of various treatments may include:

• Altered digestion and changes in bowel function
• Fatigue and weakness may result from poor nutrition, weight loss and muscle wasting
• Pain
• Neuropathy (nerve damage) may be a side effect of pressure from tumour growth or chemotherapy, resulting in numbness, tingling, burning or shooting pain
• Diabetes may develop due to the disease or cancer treatment, especially surgery

There are things you can do as you go through cancer treatment, to help improve your general health and quality of life:

• Eat a healthy balanced diet as much as possible. You may see a dietician to help with this.
• If you feel bloated after meals, eating smaller amounts more often may help. Your doctor may recommend medication such as proton pump inhibitors, or pancreatic enzyme supplements to help support digestion.
• If you are experiencing pain, talk to your doctor about your options for pain-relief medications. A referral to a pain specialist may be recommended if the usual treatments are not working.
• Maintain an active lifestyle as far as possible, to benefit both your physical and mental health.
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol intake.
• If anxiety or depression are affecting your daily life, speak to your doctor who may recommend that you seek help from a mental health professional or counsellor.
• Some people find that holistic approaches, including complementary and alternative medicine help to alleviate symptoms and reduce anxiety.