Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages. Around half of all pancreatic cancers are diagnosed in Stage 4, when the cancer has spread to other organs. The pancreas is located deep within the abdomen, and early pancreatic cancer often causes vague symptoms that can be easy to overlook. In some cases, noticeable symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed.
Knowing the potential warning signs of pancreatic cancer can help you recognize changes in your health and know when to talk with a doctor.
What are the early signs of pancreatic cancer?
The signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer can vary from person to person. Some of the more common symptoms include:
Jaundice. Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, can be one of the first noticeable signs of pancreatic cancer. It can occur when a tumor blocks the common bile duct, causing bilirubin to build up in the body.
Jaundice can also cause other changes, including dark-colored urine, light-colored stools and greasy stools. However, jaundice has many possible causes other than pancreatic cancer, including gallstones, hepatitis and other conditions affecting the liver and bile ducts. These conditions are much more common than cancer.
Abdominal or back pain. Pancreatic cancer can cause pain in the abdomen or back. A tumor may press on nearby organs or nerves, resulting in discomfort. Depending on the tumor’s location, abdominal pain may travel toward the back.
Unexplained weight loss. Unintentional weight loss can be a sign of pancreatic cancer. A pancreatic tumor may cause a loss of appetite or a feeling of fullness, which can make it difficult to eat enough to maintain weight.
Digestive problems. Because the pancreas plays an important role in digestion, pancreatic cancer can cause digestive changes. Possible symptoms include indigestion, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Some people may also experience changes in their stools.
These symptoms are common and can have many causes, so experiencing digestive problems does not necessarily mean that someone has pancreatic cancer.
New or worsening diabetes. Changes in blood sugar can sometimes be associated with pancreatic cancer. A tumor can affect the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas, potentially resulting in high blood sugar or diabetes.
For people who already have diabetes, pancreatic cancer may also be associated with worsening blood sugar control.
Fatigue. Unexplained fatigue or weakness can occur with pancreatic cancer, although fatigue is a common symptom of many other health conditions as well.
Pancreatic cancer symptoms can be easy to overlook. Abdominal discomfort, digestive changes, fatigue or changes in blood sugar can have many causes. If something is new or unusual for you, it’s worth talking worth talking with your doctor.
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