Being told that you have pancreatic cancer can be scary. You may have many questions. But you have people on your care team to help.
Coping with fear
It's normal to feel afraid. Learning more about pancreatic cancer and your treatment options can help you feel less afraid. This also helps you work with your care team and make the best choices for your treatment. You can also ask to speak with a counselor.
Working with your care team
You'll likely have different types of health care providers on your care team. These might include:
- A surgical oncologist (oncologic surgeon). This doctor uses surgery to treat cancer.
- A medical oncologist. This doctor treats cancer with medicines like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.
- A radiation oncologist. This type of doctor treats cancer with radiation therapy.
- An endocrinologist. This doctor treats diseases of the hormone-making glands, such as the pancreas.
- A gastroenterologist. This doctor specializes in diseases of the digestive tract.
Many other health care providers will be part of your team as well. They'll answer any questions you may have. They'll help you through each of the steps you'll take before, during, and after treatment. Your team will let you know what tests you need and the results of those tests. They'll guide you in making treatment decisions and help prepare you and your loved ones for what's ahead.
Learning about treatment options
To decide the best course of treatment for you, your care team needs to know as much as they can about the cancer. This may involve getting some tests and working with more than one health care provider. And you may decide that you want to get a second opinion to help you choose a treatment. Your care team can help you with this. Also ask about websites or other sources of information that you can use to learn more.
Getting support
Coping with cancer can be very stressful. Talk with your care team about seeing a counselor. Your team can refer you to someone who can help. You can also join support groups to talk with other people who are coping with pancreatic cancer. Ask your care team about local or online support groups.
