The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach, which helps in digestion and blood sugar control. When the pancreas is not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of symptoms.

The symptoms are often vague and can be due to other conditions as well, which makes it difficult to diagnose pancreatic problems. Therefore, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of pancreatic problems to diagnose and treat them at an early stage.

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms associated with pancreatic problems. The pain may be felt in the upper abdomen and can radiate towards the back. The severity of the pain may vary from mild to severe and can last for hours or days.

The pain may be relieved by leaning forward. If you experience persistent and severe abdominal pain, then you should seek medical attention immediately.

Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. It happens when the bile ducts are blocked, leading to a buildup of bilirubin (a yellow pigment produced by the liver) in the body.

In pancreatic problems, jaundice may occur due to a blockage in the bile ducts caused by a tumor in the pancreas. Jaundice may also cause itching and dark urine. If you experience jaundice, then you should seek medical attention immediately.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common with pancreatic problems. It can occur due to the disruption of the digestive process. If you experience persistent nausea and vomiting, then you should seek medical attention as it can lead to dehydration.

Weight Loss

Weight loss is a common symptom of pancreatic problems. It can occur due to decreased appetite and poor digestion. If you have unintentional weight loss, then you should seek medical attention.

Diabetes

The pancreas produces insulin, which helps in controlling blood sugar levels. When the pancreas is not functioning properly, it can lead to a decrease in the production of insulin, which can lead to diabetes.

If you have diabetes, then you should get your pancreas checked to rule out any pancreatic problem.

Fatty Stool

When the pancreas is not functioning properly, it can lead to poor digestion of fat, which can lead to fatty stool. Fatty stool is characterized by pale, bulky, and oily stool. If you notice fatty stool, then you should seek medical attention.

Bloating and Gas

Bloating and gas are common with pancreatic problems. It can occur due to the disruption of the digestive process. If you experience persistent bloating and gas, then you should seek medical attention.

Back Pain

Back pain is a common symptom associated with pancreatic problems. The pain may be felt in the upper back and may be relieved by leaning forward. If you experience persistent back pain, then you should seek medical attention.

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are common with pancreatic problems. It can occur due to the emotional stress of dealing with a chronic illness. If you experience persistent depression and anxiety, then you should seek medical attention.

Yellowing of Eyes and Skin

The yellowing of the eyes and skin may occur due to the buildup of bilirubin in the body. If you experience this symptom, then you should seek medical attention immediately.