12 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer You Should Never Ignore…. See more

12 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer You Should Never Ignore…. See more

# 12 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer You Should Never Ignore

 

Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to recognize in its early stages. The pancreas sits deep inside the abdomen, and early tumors may cause few—or no—noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can resemble much more common conditions such as indigestion, gallstones, pancreatitis, or other digestive problems. ([Institut National du Cancer][1])

 

That does **not** mean that every stomachache, bout of fatigue, or change in appetite is a warning sign of cancer. In fact, most of these symptoms are caused by conditions other than pancreatic cancer. However, persistent, unexplained, or worsening changes deserve medical attention.

 

Below are 12 symptoms worth knowing. They are not a way to diagnose pancreatic cancer yourself; rather, they can help you recognize when it is sensible to speak with a healthcare professional.

 

## 1. Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes

 

One of the most recognizable signs associated with pancreatic cancer is **jaundice**, which causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow.

 

Jaundice can occur when a tumor blocks the common bile duct, preventing bile from flowing normally from the liver into the intestine. This allows bilirubin, a substance produced when red blood cells are broken down, to accumulate in the body. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

Jaundice can also occur with other conditions, including gallstones and liver or bile-duct diseases. Nevertheless, unexplained yellowing of the eyes or skin should be evaluated promptly.

 

## 2. Dark-Colored Urine

 

A change in urine color can sometimes occur before obvious yellowing of the skin or eyes.

 

When bilirubin levels rise because of impaired bile flow, urine may become unusually dark or brown. This can accompany jaundice and is one of the changes doctors may look for when investigating possible pancreatic or bile-duct problems. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

Dark urine has many possible causes, including dehydration and certain medications, so it does not automatically indicate cancer. But persistent unexplained changes should not be dismissed.

 

## 3. Pale, Light-Colored, or Greasy Stools

 

Healthy bile contributes to the normal brown color of stool. If a blockage prevents bile from reaching the intestine, stools can become unusually pale or gray.

 

Pancreatic problems can also interfere with digestion because the pancreas produces enzymes needed to break down food. As a result, stools may become greasy, oily, or difficult to flush. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

A persistent change in bowel movements is worth discussing with a doctor, particularly when it occurs alongside weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, or other symptoms.

 

## 4. Unexplained Weight Loss

 

Losing weight without intentionally changing your diet or activity level is another important warning sign.

 

Unintentional weight loss is common among people with pancreatic cancer. It can occur because of reduced appetite, digestive difficulties, changes in metabolism, or the effects of the disease itself. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

Of course, unexplained weight loss has numerous possible causes, including thyroid disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, infections, and other medical conditions. The key is not to assume the cause without investigation.

 

## 5. Loss of Appetite

 

A noticeable reduction in appetite can accompany unexplained weight loss.

 

You may find yourself becoming full sooner than usual, having little interest in food, or simply eating substantially less than you normally would. Pancreatic cancer can affect appetite as the disease develops, although appetite loss is common with many other illnesses. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

If a significant appetite change persists—especially if you are also losing weight—it is a good reason to make an appointment with a healthcare professional.

 

## 6. Persistent Upper-Abdominal Pain

 

Pain in the upper or middle abdomen is another symptom that can occur with pancreatic cancer.

 

The pancreas lies behind the stomach, so pain related to the pancreas can sometimes feel deep inside the abdomen. Depending on the location and extent of a tumor, discomfort may be persistent or become more noticeable over time. ([Institut National du Cancer][1])

 

Abdominal pain is extremely common and is much more often caused by something other than cancer. However, new, persistent, unexplained, or progressively worsening pain should be evaluated rather than repeatedly ignored.

 

## 7. Back Pain

 

Some people with pancreatic cancer experience pain that extends from the abdomen into the back.

 

Because the pancreas is located near the spine, tumors can affect surrounding tissues and nerves. Pancreatic cancer involving the nerves around the pancreas can contribute to back pain. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

Back pain alone is very unlikely to mean pancreatic cancer. Muscle strain, arthritis, spinal problems, kidney conditions, and many other issues are far more common. But unexplained back pain accompanied by abdominal discomfort, weight loss, jaundice, or digestive changes warrants medical attention.

 

## 8. Nausea and Vomiting

 

Nausea and vomiting can occur when a pancreatic tumor affects nearby digestive structures.

 

For example, a tumor can put pressure on the digestive tract and make it more difficult for food to pass normally. This may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, or symptoms that become worse after eating. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

Because nausea and vomiting have countless possible causes, these symptoms are not specific to pancreatic cancer. Persistent or severe vomiting, however, should always be assessed.

 

## 9. Unusual Fatigue or Weakness

 

People Were Enraged When They Discovered What Was Wrong

 

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Persistent fatigue is another symptom that may occur with pancreatic cancer.

 

This is more than simply feeling tired after a busy day. Some people experience an ongoing lack of energy or physical weakness that does not seem related to their level of activity. ([Cancer.org][2])

 

Fatigue is one of the least specific symptoms on this list. Poor sleep, stress, anemia, infections, medications, thyroid problems, and many other conditions can cause it. Still, severe or persistent fatigue—especially when combined with other unexplained symptoms—deserves attention.

 

## 10. New or Worsening Digestive Problems

 

Changes in digestion can sometimes accompany pancreatic disease.