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Usually you begin by seeing your GP when you develop symptoms|. Your GP will examine you before referring you to the hospital for tests| and for specialist advice and treatment.
It can be difficult for a GP to diagnose pancreatic cancer as the symptoms may be vague and can be caused by other conditions. However, your GP will normally look at your eyes and the colour of your skin to check for jaundice, test your urine for bile and take a blood sample if needed. They may also examine your tummy (abdomen) to feel for any swelling in the area of the liver. After this, your GP may arrange for tests at the hospital and refer you to a specialist.
The specialist will ask you about your general health and any previous medical problems, and then examine you. You may have a blood test and a chest x-ray to check your general health. To help make the diagnosis, you’ll probably have a number of further tests|.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.