Side Effects

Cancer and its treatment can cause a variety of side effects. Abdominal and/or back pain are common side effects of pancreatic cancer. In addition to appropriate pain medications, a specialized type of nerve block (called a celiac plexus block, or celiac neurolysis) can often be performed by a pain specialist to relieve the pain associated with pancreatic cancer. Doctors have made major strides in recent years not only in treating pain but also in addressing nausea, vomiting, and other physical side effects associated with pancreatic cancer and cancer treatments. Many such treatments used today are less intensive but as effective as treatments used in the past.

Fear of treatment side effects is common after a diagnosis of cancer, but it may be helpful to know that preventing and controlling side effects is a major focus of your health-care team. Before treatment begins, talk with your doctor about possible side effects of the specific treatments you will be receiving. The specific side effects that can occur depend on a variety of factors, including the type of cancer, its location, the individual treatment plan (including the length and dosage of treatment), and the person’s overall health.

Ask your doctor which side effects are most likely to happen (and which are not), when side effects are likely to occur, and how they will be addressed by the health-care team if they do happen. Also, be sure to communicate with your doctor about side effects you experience during and after treatment. Learn more about the most common side effects of cancer and different treatments, along with ways to prevent or control them.

In addition to physical side effects, you may experience psychosocial (emotional and social) effects as well. Learn more about the importance of addressing such needs, including concerns about managing the cost of your cancer care.

Learn more about late effects or long-term side effects by reading the After Treatment section or talking with your doctor.