By
Joel Katz
7 signs of pancreatic cancer to stay alert to
Early-stage pancreatic cancer rarely causes obvious symptoms. Symptoms may not appear until the cancer is large enough to affect nearby organs or has spread.
In this blog, we will talk about some of the common signs of pancreatic cancer.
These symptoms can also occur in many other conditions and do not necessarily mean that you have cancer. Speak with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
1. Jaundice
The first symptom of pancreatic cancer is often jaundice. Signs of jaundice may include yellowish skin and eyes, dark urine, pale bowel motions and itchy skin. Jaundice is caused by the build-up of bilirubin, a dark yellow-brown substance found in bile. Bilirubin can build up if pancreatic cancer blocks the common bile duct.
2. Appetite loss
If your once-healthy appetite has dropped off for no apparent reason, it could be your body’s way of signalling trouble.
3. Digestive issues
Pancreatic cancer can interfere with digestion, causing problems like nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation.
4. Unexplained weight loss
One of the early signs of pancreatic cancer is unexplained weight loss. If you suddenly lose a lot of weight without changing your diet or exercise, see your doctor right away.
5. Abdominal pain or discomfort
Constant stomach pain or discomfort, especially in the upper stomach or back, is another common symptom of pancreatic cancer. Abdominal pain can worsen after eating or lying down and may come with nausea or vomiting.
6. Changes in stool colour
If you notice changes in the colour of your stools it could indicate a problem with your pancreas or bile ducts. Pancreatic cancer can disrupt the flow of digestive enzymes and bile, leading to changes in stool colour.* It is normal to have occasional changes in stool colour, but if the changes persist, it is important to investigate further.
7. Newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes
Most cases of diabetes are not linked to pancreatic cancer. However, if older people develop diabetes without a family history of the disease, it could be a warning sign. Pancreatic cancer can affect the pancreas’s ability to produce insulin, leading to insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.
Who’s at risk?
While pancreatic cancer can affect anyone, certain factors may increase your risk, such as smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and a family history of pancreatic cancer.
Learn more about pancreatic cancer symptoms.
*Source: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/conditions/pancreatic-cancer
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