Seeking Clarity on My Mother's Health Condition
I am reaching out for some advice from the medical community concerning my mother's health situation. She is a 69-year-old woman, who maintains a typical weight, does not smoke or consume alcohol, and, although she has not been physically active recently, she used to keep busy with household tasks. For over nine months, she has experienced manageable abdominal pain, but her symptoms intensified last month, prompting her to consult a gastroenterology team. Currently, she struggles with food digestion and often experiences gas and discomfort. Her appetite has significantly diminished. Her healthcare providers performed various blood tests and conducted an abdominal MRI. I am deeply worried that the findings suggest pancreatic cancer which might have metastasized to her liver and lymph nodes, as noted in the MRI report. The next steps will include an endoscopic ultrasound and a CT scan of her pancreas. In the meantime, I am feeling quite frightened, as much of the information I've encountered about this illness indicates a swift decline. I realize that definitive conclusions cannot be drawn until the endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy results are available, but I find some solace in her normal CA19-9 level (11). Am I being overly optimistic? I welcome your candid thoughts: • Blood tests reveal very elevated ALK PHOS at 421, along with AST (SGOT) at 182, ALT (SGPT) at 117, and A1ANTRYPSIN at 222. • Hepatitis A Total Antibody = Positive • Hepatitis B Core Antibody = Positive • HBV DNA = Not detected • CA 19-9 = 11 (normal) • Immunoglobulin = 427 The MRI results suggest substantial metastatic involvement in the liver and lymph nodes. While the specific origin of the malignancy is uncertain, it may be situated in the pancreatic uncinate process, which has led to biliary system and pancreatic duct dilation. Given that we are still collecting information and these tests require some time, I would like her to receive medications that could alleviate her symptoms and combat any potential growth inside her. Would prescription ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) be beneficial in shrinking or slowing down a tumor? (The doctor mentioned that UDCA is not typically used for this purpose.) What other inquiries should I make of her healthcare team during this waiting period? Would placing a stent in the bile duct be advantageous for her digestion? Should she consider taking pancreatic enzymes to aid in food breakdown?
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 5:40:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
Your concern for your mother's health is understandable, especially given the complexities of her symptoms and the potential seriousness of her condition. While it's natural to feel worried, focusing on actionable steps and seeking clarity can help manage both her symptoms and your concerns.
Summary of Key Points
- Your mother is experiencing significant abdominal pain, eating difficulties, and concerning MRI results suggesting possible malignancy.
- Important upcoming tests (endoscopic ultrasound and CT scan) are needed for a definitive diagnosis.
- It's crucial to address her symptoms and improve her quality of life while awaiting results.
Explanation
The symptoms your mother is experiencing, along with the recent imaging and blood results, are alarming and understandably causing you anxiety. While the normal CA19-9 level can be reassuring (as it typically correlates with pancreatic cancer), the elevated liver enzymes and imaging findings are significant. The next steps in her care, namely the endoscopic ultrasound and CT scan, are essential for determining the presence and extent of any potential cancer, as well as planning her treatment.
Next Steps
-
Symptom Management: Consider asking her healthcare team about medications to improve digestion and alleviate her discomfort. This could include:
- Pancreatic Enzymes: These can help with digestion and nutrient absorption, especially if her pancreatic function is compromised.
- Bile Duct Stenting: Discuss the possibility of placing a stent to relieve any bile duct obstructions, which can improve digestion and reduce discomfort.
-
Communicate with Healthcare Providers:
- Inquire about UDCA: While the doctor indicated that UDCA isn't commonly used for tumor reduction, ask for their reasoning and any alternative medication options that could help manage her symptoms.
- Follow-up on Blood Tests: Request clarification on the implications of the elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis positivity to understand any potential chronic conditions affecting her liver function.
-
Keeping a Symptom Diary: Document her symptoms, focusing on the timing, intensity, and factors that may influence her discomfort and appetite. This information can be valuable for her healthcare team in tailoring her care.
-
Emotional Support: Caring for someone with serious health concerns can be overwhelming. Consider seeking support for yourself as well, whether through counseling, support groups, or speaking with friends and family.
By focusing on these areas, you can help ensure that your mother receives the necessary support during this challenging time, while also prioritizing her comfort and quality of life. If you have further questions or need more specific information, don't hesitate to ask.
Related Questions
Assessing My Health Concerns: How Anxious Should I Be?
I’m a 32-year-old woman, weighing 124 pounds and standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall. For over a year, I have been experiencing bright red rectal bleeding. Initially, I attributed this issue to hemorrhoids that developed during my pregnancy two years ago. The bleeding occurs with most of my bowel movements, sometimes happens without one, and on a few occasions, has been enough to stain the toilet bowl significantly. The color of the blood is typically darker than what I observe during a hemorrhoid flare-up. There is a notable family history of bowel cancer on both sides; one family member was diagnosed at age 45, and another at 60. In the past six months, I have encountered several episodes of severe abdominal pain—3 to 4 instances—intense enough to consider a trip to the emergency room. However, the pain usually subsides within about an hour. It’s unusual for me to experience such acute pain, given my high tolerance for discomfort; for example, I once played rugby shortly after dislocating and fracturing my finger. Recently, I mustered the courage to consult with my doctor, who recommended a FIT test, which returned a positive result (30.1). Additionally, I underwent a complete blood test, and aside from having low ferritin levels (7 µg/L), all other results were normal. I have since been referred for a colonoscopy on a two-week waiting list to rule out any possible bowel cancer. Given these circumstances, how concerned should I be? Thank you for your input.
Understanding Possible Seizure Triggers and Recurrence Risks
Health Background: I am a 21-year-old female, standing at 169 cm and weighing 65 kg. Over the past three years, I have been using oral contraceptives. As of this morning, I started taking 25 mcg of levothyroxine along with a weekly vitamin D supplement of 0.266 mg. Recently, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and found to have a vitamin D deficiency that I suspect has existed for the last three years. I do not consume alcohol or smoke, and I can confirm I am not pregnant. Two years ago, I experienced a mild concussion. I currently reside in Spain. A couple of months back, in mid-December, I blacked out twice. The second occurrence took place while I was at the doctor’s office after seeking urgent medical care for the initial incident. Following the second episode, I underwent a CT scan and an EKG, both of which returned normal results. Further tests, as directed by my physician, revealed a critical vitamin D deficiency and hypothyroidism; however, he expressed doubt that either of these conditions led to my loss of consciousness. I was then referred to a neurologist, and I am presently awaiting an appointment. Although the waiting period is lengthy, my doctor indicated that I should receive priority for scheduling, although the exact timeframe remains uncertain. The referral document summarized my events, labeling the second episode (which the physician witnessed) as a potential seizure devoid of tonic-clonic movements—a revelation that took me by surprise. After regaining consciousness, I felt extremely disoriented and terrified, struggling to process what was happening. I have no prior history of seizures, epilepsy, or any related conditions, and there is no known family history of these issues. If this indeed was a seizure, what might have triggered it? Additionally, what is the likelihood of experiencing another one? Since that time, I have not had any further incidents, but I have experienced moments where I felt a sense of impending doom, which I managed to overcome. I intend to wait for the neurologist's evaluation, but the uncertainty surrounding a possible neurological condition is quite distressing. Thank you for any insight you can provide!
Understanding EEG Results for My 22-Month-Old Son: Insights Needed
Could someone help clarify this for me? My son, who is just 22 months old, hasn’t started walking yet, becomes tired easily, and has been experiencing behavioral outbursts. He had a febrile seizure in February 2025, followed by another unexplained seizure in April 2025, which led us to consult a neurologist. Since he was 3 months old, he has been receiving therapy from a physical therapist for torticollis. At birth, he spent five days in the NICU due to issues with meconium aspiration. A recent MRI showed normal results, and he also had a follow-up EEG after one conducted in July 2025. The results from this recent EEG were abnormal for a pediatric patient in awake, drowsy, and sleeping states. Notably, there were brief episodes of left frontotemporal delta slowing, which occurred mainly when he was awake and drowsy. There were no signs of epileptiform activity detected. In contrast, the EEG performed back on July 3, 2025, was deemed normal for both awake and drowsy states, again with no evidence of epileptiform irregularities, although it did not capture any sleep data. This examination was prompted by the child's existing history of febrile seizures. Importantly, he is not currently on any anti-seizure medications. The EEG procedure used standard electrode placements per the 10-20 system, conducted a single-lead EKG, and included continuous video monitoring. During the analysis, the background activity was symmetric, indicating some anterior-posterior (AP) organization, with a dominant rhythm of 50-80 microvolts at 7 Hz. His drowsy state was marked by a reduced amount of eye blink activity, less breathing motion interference, and a generalized slowing in theta/delta frequencies. Stage II sleep exhibited spindles and vertex waves patterns. Additionally, there were intermittent bursts of 250-300 microvolts in the left frontotemporal region with semi-rhythmic activity of 2-4 Hz, mostly observed during wakefulness and drowsiness. No definitive epileptiform discharge was noted. Photic stimulation during the test did not elicit a strong response, and hyperventilation was not conducted during this session.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation and Thyroid Issues: Variability in Cardioversion Decisions
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for guidance regarding my mother’s current health situation, and I’d greatly appreciate any shared experiences or thoughts. **My mother's background:** - **Age**: 55 years - **Weight**: Recently dropped to 116 kg from 118 kg in just two days, likely due to diuretics. - **Health history**: Previously an underactive thyroid, undiagnosed and untreated, now presenting as overactive. - **Medications**: Currently taking thyroid medication and a beta-blocker (Rapiblock). **Current health status:** My mother has been hospitalized since Tuesday, experiencing **atrial fibrillation with heart rates exceeding 200** beats per minute due to her thyroid's hyperactivity. - The plan for cardioversion was initially settled on Tuesday. However, the following day, the medical team advised postponing it until her thyroid levels could be stabilized, believing that her heart rate would return to normal once her thyroid condition was managed. - Her **obesity** precludes her from undergoing a transthoracic echocardiogram, and due to her thyroid concerns, she cannot handle contrast dye (this has been a consistent issue for over four years). Therefore, the only feasible option was a **transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)**, which has yet to be performed. - She has been prescribed various medications including beta-blockers and thyroid treatments in the past. - On Friday, a doctor proposed proceeding with cardioversion; however, the attending senior physician objected. - Today (Saturday), another clinician has expressed a desire to move forward with cardioversion, having initiated a new medication, as the senior physician is unavailable. - **Communication has been unclear**, as we were notified of developments by a nurse rather than the physician in charge, causing confusion and anxiety. - Currently, only a **chest X-ray** is scheduled, and the TEE remains unaddressed. **My inquiries are as follows:** 1. Is it common for medical professionals to have varying opinions and frequently revise medication or treatment plans like cardioversion? 2. Is it safe to conduct cardioversion in the absence of a TEE? I presumed that this was a standard procedure to exclude the presence of blood clots. 3. Is it usual practice to have only a chest X-ray prior to moving ahead with cardioversion? 4. How typical is it for patients or their families to not be directly informed about treatment changes and learn about them through nursing staff instead? I recognize that this cannot substitute for professional medical advice. I’m simply trying to discern whether these circumstances are typical or if we should express our concerns more assertively with the healthcare facility. Thank you for your insights!
28-Year-Old Male Experiencing Scalp Sensations Post-Amitriptyline Treatment
I am a 28-year-old man in generally good health, without any cardiac concerns. Approximately a month ago, I encountered intense pain localized to one side of my head, which was unresponsive to paracetamol. However, a single dose of a migraine treatment provided substantial relief. Following that, I began a regimen of amitriptyline, starting at a nightly dose of 10 to 25 mg. While my head pain has diminished significantly—by about 90 to 95%—I now experience occasional uncomfortable sensations on my scalp. These feelings include pins and needles, a cooling sensation, and some crawling feelings near my hairline and ears. There are fleeting moments where I feel brief throbs lasting a second, but I do not have any persistent headaches. To clarify, I do not experience any of the following: - Nausea - Weakness in my limbs - Numbness - Changes in my vision - Coordination difficulties - Seizures The symptoms I have are transient, shifting around and often intensifying when I become conscious of them or as the day progresses. I would like to know: Is it common to experience these sensations during the recovery stage following episodes of neuralgia or migraine-like discomfort? Additionally, could the amitriptyline potentially be causing these temporary paresthetic sensations? I am seeking some reassurance or advice on what is typically observed during this healing process. Thank you.