Pancreatic cancer is a dangerous and often deadly disease that affects thousands of people each year. Given how the symptoms of pancreatic cancer can often go unnoticed, it’s helpful to research this information online before consulting a doctor.
Yellowing of the Skin
Jaundice is a common symptom of pancreatic cancer, and it is often one of the first signs of the disease. It occurs when a buildup of bilirubin in the blood causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow.
Lower Back Pain
Back pain is a common ailment, but if it is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. The pain may be dull or sharp and may be located in the middle or lower back.
Changes in Urine
If you notice that your urine is darker than usual or has a reddish tint, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This is due to the excess bilirubin in the blood that is excreted through the urine.
Changes in Stool
Stool that is pale, greasy, and foul-smelling can be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This is due to the lack of digestive enzymes being released by the pancreas.
Oral Health Issues
Pancreatic cancer can cause oral health problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. This is due to the lack of digestive enzymes being released by the pancreas, which can affect the pH balance in the mouth.
Loss of Interest in Food
If you have a sudden loss of appetite or no longer enjoy the foods you used to, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This is due to the effects of the disease on the digestive system.
Dropping Weight
Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of many cancers, including pancreatic cancer. If you have lost weight without trying, it could be a sign of the disease.
Developing Diabetes
In some cases, pancreatic cancer can cause diabetes or make existing diabetes worse. This is because the tumor can damage the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Frequently Feeling Sick to Your Stomach
Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain are common symptoms of pancreatic cancer. These symptoms may be more severe after eating.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed. It can be caused by many things, including gallstones and alcohol abuse, but it can also be a sign of pancreatic cancer.
Ongoing Bloating
Bloating and abdominal discomfort are common symptoms of many digestive disorders, but they can also be a sign of pancreatic cancer. If you have ongoing bloating that doesn’t go away, it’s important to get it checked out.
Blood Clots
Blood clots can be a sign of many health problems, including pancreatic cancer. If you develop a blood clot in your leg, arm, or lung, it’s important to get it checked out.
Enlarged Gallbladder
The gallbladder is located near the pancreas, and an enlarged gallbladder can be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This is due to the tumor blocking the bile duct, which can cause the gallbladder to become enlarged.
Enlarged Liver
An enlarged liver can be a sign of many health problems, including pancreatic cancer. It occurs when the tumor spreads to the liver or blocks the bile duct.
Abnormalities in Fatty Tissue
Pancreatic cancer can cause abnormalities in fatty tissue, which can be detected by a CT scan or MRI. These abnormalities can be a sign of the disease.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of many health problems, including pancreatic cancer. If you are feeling tired all the time, even after getting enough rest, it’s important to get it checked out.
Itchy Skin
Itchy skin can be a sign of many health problems, including pancreatic cancer. It occurs when bilirubin builds up in the skin, causing irritation and itching.
Fever and Chills
Fever and chills are common symptoms of many health problems, including pancreatic cancer. They may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain and nausea.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea can be a sign of many health problems, including pancreatic cancer. It occurs when the digestive system is disrupted by the tumor.
Ascites and Oedema
Ascites and oedema are conditions where fluid builds up in the abdomen and other parts of the body. They can be a sign of pancreatic cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.