Pancreatic cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the pancreas – a vital organ responsible for producing enzymes that aid in digestion and hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels.

This type of cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage when the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body, which is why it is crucial to pay attention to early warning signs. Here are some early warning signs of pancreatic cancer that you need to know about:.

1. Jaundice

One of the most common early signs of pancreatic cancer is jaundice. This is a condition in which the skin and the white of the eyes turn yellow.

It occurs when the cancer blocks the bile duct, which is responsible for draining the bile (a yellow-green fluid that helps digest fats) from the liver into the small intestine. When the bile cannot flow properly, it builds up in the liver and increases the level of bilirubin in the blood, causing the skin and the eyes to turn yellow.

2. Abdominal Pain or Discomfort

Another early sign of pancreatic cancer is abdominal pain or discomfort. The pain is usually located in the upper part of the abdomen and may radiate to the back. The pain may come and go or be constant. It may also worsen after eating or lying down.

The pain is often described as dull or achy, but it can also be sharp or stabbing.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This is because cancer can affect the way your body uses food, making it difficult to absorb nutrients properly.

This can lead to weight loss, even if you are eating the same amount of food as usual. If you have lost more than 10% of your body weight without trying, it’s important to see a doctor.

4. Loss of Appetite

Another early sign of pancreatic cancer is a loss of appetite. If you have had a sudden decrease in your desire to eat, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

This loss of appetite can lead to weight loss and malnutrition, which can make it harder for your body to fight cancer.

5. Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling sick to your stomach or vomiting can also be an early sign of pancreatic cancer. This symptom is often accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain and loss of appetite.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as possible.

6. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another early sign of pancreatic cancer. This is because the cancer can affect the way your body absorbs water and salt from food, leading to loose, watery stools.

If you have had diarrhea for more than a week without an obvious cause, it’s important to see your doctor.

7. Changes in Stool Color

If your stool is light-colored or greasy, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer.

This is because the cancer can affect the way your body produces and secretes digestive enzymes, which can cause malabsorption and changes in stool color and consistency.

8. New-Onset Diabetes

If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes later in life, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. Diabetes is a condition in which the body’s ability to produce or respond to insulin is impaired.

Pancreatic cancer can cause the pancreas to stop producing insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels and diabetes.

9. Pancreatitis

Another early sign of pancreatic cancer is pancreatitis – an inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Pancreatitis can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and a rapid heartbeat.

10. Blood Clots

If you experience blood clots in the legs or arms, it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This is because cancer can cause changes in blood flow and the way blood clots, leading to an increased risk of blood clots.

The Bottom Line

Early detection is key to treating pancreatic cancer, so it’s important to be aware of the early warning signs. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

By detecting the cancer early, you can improve your chances of successful treatment and recovery.