Could my upper back pain related to breathing?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have back pain in the thoracic spine (L7-L8); when I round my back and inhale, it hurts out to the right. There are no other symptoms, but I'm still afraid it could be pancreatic cancer.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern. I have reviewed your case history and your concerns. Pancreatic cancer usually presents as painless jaundice (yellow discoloration of skin and eyes). It can present as recurrent upper abdominal pain or episodes of pancreatitis, upper abdominal pain that radiates towards the back, rather than pain directly starting at the back. You might have a simple spine problem, which has nothing to do with pancreatic cancer.

I suggest you get an investigation CT (computed tomography) scan of the abdomen with the pancreatic protocol (this is an ideal test to rule out pancreatic cancer). CT scan would also help to look at your spine for any major issues over there. Do you have a family history of pancreatic cancer? considering your specific concern related to pancreatic cancer.

Do you have a prior history of pancreas-related diseases like pancreatitis or heavy alcohol consumption I also suggest you get blood tests as well as check pancreatic function like serum amylase and lipase.

I hope I have cleared all your doubts. Kindly revert if there are any queries.