Pancreatic cancer is considered one of the deadliest cancers. This is because, in most cases, the diagnosis is made when cancer has already spread to other organs.

According to the American Cancer Society, only about 10% of pancreatic cancers can be cured. Therefore, knowing the pancreatic warning signs is very important. Below are some of the warning signs that you should not ignore.

1. Jaundice

Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eye whites that results from an accumulation of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a substance that is usually eliminated from the body by the liver.

However, if the pancreas is not working properly, it can interfere with the bile duct, leading to an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood and resulting in jaundice. Jaundice is usually one of the first pancreatic warning signs.

2. Unintentional Weight Loss

Unintentional weight loss is a common symptom in people with pancreatic cancer. This is because cancer cells steal nutrients from the body and also because the pancreas is not functioning properly to help digest food.

If you have unintentionally lost weight (more than 10% of body weight) without changing your diet or exercise routine, you should seek medical attention immediately.

3. Abdominal Pain and Back Pain

Abdominal pain around the upper abdomen and back pain that persists and worsens over time could be warning signs of pancreatic cancer. The pain can be severe and worsen after eating, or it could come and go.

If you experience abdominal pain and back pain that persist, don’t ignore it as it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer.

4. Bloating and Digestive Problems

The pancreas plays an essential role in digestion by producing enzymes that help break down food. If the pancreas is not working correctly, it can lead to problems with digestion.

Bloating and digestive problems such as diarrhea, constipation, or indigestion that last more than a week could be a sign of pancreatic cancer.

5. Diabetes

Pancreatic cancer can interfere with the production of insulin and cause diabetes. If you have been diabetic before and are now experiencing increased blood sugar levels, don’t ignore it. High blood sugars can be a sign of pancreatic cancer.

6. Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting can often be due to many causes, including viral infections or food poisoning. However, if you experience persistent nausea and vomiting that doesn’t go away, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer.

Vomiting can also result from a blockage of the bile duct by a tumor.

7. Pale or Greasy Stool

Stools that are pale or greasy could be the result of not enough pancreatic enzymes reaching the digestive tract, often because of a blockage caused by a tumor. This is a pancreatic warning sign that should not be ignored.

8. Itchy Skin

Pruritus or itchy skin can result from jaundice. When the bilirubin accumulates in the blood, it can cause severe itching. If you experience itchy skin without any apparent cause, seek medical attention immediately.

9. Fatigue and Weakness

Fatigue and weakness can be signs of many illnesses, but they are also warning signs of pancreatic cancer. If you experience unusual fatigue and weakness that persists, don’t ignore it.

Tiredness and weakness can be due to cancer cells stealing nutrients from the body.

10. Blood Clots

Pancreatic cancer can increase the chance of blood clots in the body, which can lead to deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Blood clots are a rare sign of pancreatic cancer, but if you experience them, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease that is often diagnosed at a late stage. Knowing the pancreatic warning signs can help diagnose the disease early, which can improve the chances of survival.

If you experience any of the pancreatic warning signs mentioned above, seek medical attention immediately.