Warning signs of pancreatic cancer you shouldn’t ignore

Credit / Shutterstock
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to detect early, as symptoms often don’t appear until the disease has progressed.

However, knowing the warning signs can help with early detection and improve treatment options. Here are some key symptoms to watch out for.

Keep reading to find out more about this cancer.

1. Persistent Abdominal or Back Pain
Pain in the upper abdomen or middle to lower back can be an early sign of pancreatic cancer. This discomfort is often dull and persistent, sometimes worsening after eating or when lying down.

2. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying can be a red flag for many health conditions, including pancreatic cancer. If you experience sudden and significant weight loss without changes to your diet or exercise routine, consult a doctor.

3. Jaundice (Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes)
A yellow tint to the skin and eyes occurs when the liver isn’t processing bile properly. Pancreatic cancer can block the bile ducts, leading to jaundice, Pancreatic Cancer Action details. If you notice this symptom along with dark urine or pale stools, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Changes in Stool and Urine
Light-colored or greasy stools that float in the toilet may indicate a problem with digestion, often caused by a blockage in the pancreas. Dark urine can also be a sign of bile duct obstruction.

5. Loss of Appetite and Digestive Issues
If you’re experiencing ongoing nausea, vomiting, bloating, or a sudden loss of appetite, these could be signs of pancreatic cancer affecting digestion, according to the Mayo Clinic. The pancreas plays a key role in breaking down food, and any disruptions can lead to discomfort.

6. New-Onset Diabetes
The pancreas helps regulate blood sugar levels. If a person without a history of diabetes suddenly develops the condition, especially with no clear risk factors, it could be a warning sign of pancreatic cancer.

7. Fatigue and Weakness
Feeling constantly tired or weak without an obvious cause could indicate your body is fighting a serious illness. If fatigue is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to investigate further.

Credit: Shutterstock.
8. Enlarged Gallbladder
A swollen gallbladder, often discovered during imaging tests for other conditions, can be linked to pancreatic cancer blocking bile flow. If you have unexplained bloating or tenderness in the upper right abdomen, talk to your doctor.

9. Itchy Skin
Bile buildup in the body due to a blocked bile duct can lead to persistent itching. If you experience unexplained itchiness along with jaundice, it may be a sign of a more serious issue.

10. Blood Clots
Pancreatic cancer can increase the risk of blood clots, sometimes leading to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Swelling, redness, or pain in the legs could indicate a clot, requiring immediate medical attention.

When to See a Doctor
If you experience one or more of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it’s important to seek medical advice. While these signs don’t always indicate cancer, early detection can improve outcomes and provide more treatment options.

By staying informed and paying attention to your body, you can take proactive steps toward better health. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to get checked.

Related Posts

Doctor-approved finger test warns of serious health conditions

A simple test that involves making a small diamond window with your fingers can help you to see the warning signs of a serious health condition, including…

JD Vance underwent surgery before being sworn in as VP

JD Vance’s journey to the White House is quite an astounding one. The 40-year-old, from Middletown, Ohio, shot to relative stardom when he released his memoir Hillbilly…

Couple with dwarfism have children against all the odds

Most married couples can relate to being asked when they are going to have children but for Charli Worgan and her husband Cullen, they were often asked…

Avoid these 10 things before an gynecologist appointment

Most women will likely visit a gynecologist from time to time to ensure their health is in check and to help prevent any potential health issues. And…

Shirley Nunn’s death expose failures in care for families

In 2021, Shirley Nunn, 67, and her son Steven, 50, were found dead in their home in Middlesborough, England. Now, a new investigation reveals heartbreaking details surrounding…

10 warning signs you’re eating too much sugar

We all know that sugar is in cakes and desserts, but it sneaks into so many other foods — bread, sauces, and even so-called “healthy” snacks. While…