confusing set of symptoms

I'm going through a confusing set of symptoms and I'm getting quite worried. I'm a 41 year old male and about a month ago I started to have a faint hint of a sore throat and the slightest pressure in the upper right quadrant of my abdomen. This went on for about three weeks with no increase or decrease in pain levels so I decided to see my PCP. He seemed to think it was either allergies, a virus or maybe GERD. I tried allergy medication and an anti biotic and things did not improve. Lately a new and more bothersome symptom is that I'm losing weight. Probably about 8-10 lbs. in the last month. I just visited my PCP again and he did some blood work and is going to have a CT Scan done. My father died 17 years ago from pancreatic cancer at age 55 and I'm starting to get very scared. Is a blood test amd Ct Scan enough to detect a problem? In the past two days the pain level in my sore throat has increased  and I'm still losing weight. The URQ pain is about the same it has always been. I don't have a fever or swollen glands. What could this be? The strangest thing is that I first noticed all of this after I dramatically increased my running distance while jogging. Could that have anything to do with this? Any answers would be greatly appreciated.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

GERD is certainly possible, but other more concerning diseases can be considered as well.

I agree with the CT scan, which can evaluate the liver and gallbladder.  It can also image the pancreas - but if pancreatic cancer is a concern, an MRI can be considered.

I would also evaluate the upper digestive tract.  The most comprehensive test would be an upper endoscopy.  With the history of weight loss, I would suggest this test.

Non-GI causes of the sore throat can be evaluated by an ENT physician.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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