Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. It is often diagnosed at a late stage, making it difficult to treat effectively. However, if caught early, it is possible to remove the tumor before it has spread to other parts of the body.

There are two indications of pancreatic cancer that you should be aware of.

1. Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes. It is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a waste product produced by the liver.

When the pancreas is affected by cancer, it can cause a blockage in the bile duct, which prevents bilirubin from leaving the body. This buildup of bilirubin causes jaundice to develop.

If you notice that your skin or eyes are turning yellow, it is important to see your doctor right away. Jaundice is not always a sign of pancreatic cancer, but it is a symptom that needs to be investigated.

2. Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is another indication of pancreatic cancer. The pain is typically felt in the upper abdomen and may radiate to the back. It is usually described as a dull ache that gets worse after eating.

In some cases, the pain may be so severe that it wakes the patient up at night.

Abdominal pain can be caused by many different things, but if it is paired with other symptoms such as jaundice or weight loss, it is important to get it checked out by a doctor.

Other Symptoms to Watch For

In addition to jaundice and abdominal pain, there are several other symptoms that may indicate pancreatic cancer:.

Unexplained weight loss
Nausea or vomiting
Loss of appetite
Changes in bowel movements
Fatigue or weakness

Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer

There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer:.

Age – most cases of pancreatic cancer occur in people over the age of 60.
Smoking – smokers are twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer as non-smokers.
Family history – having a close relative such as a parent or sibling who has had pancreatic cancer increases the risk.
Obesity – being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Prevention and Early Detection

There is no way to completely prevent pancreatic cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk:.

Quit smoking
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

Early detection is key to improving the chances of successful treatment. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, talk to your doctor. They can perform tests to determine if pancreatic cancer is the cause of your symptoms.

Treatment Options

The treatment you receive for pancreatic cancer will depend on the stage of the cancer and your overall health. Treatment options include:.

Surgery – if the tumor is small and has not spread to other parts of the body, surgery to remove the tumor may be an option.
Radiation therapy – high-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy – medications are used to kill cancer cells.

If you are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, it is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.