Pancreatic cancer symptoms include abdominal or back pain, jaundice, diarrhea, nausea, weight loss, and diabetes. The pancreas is a vital organ located in the abdomen that produces digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin.

In the early stages, pancreatic cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may come on gradually and irregularly, leading many people to overlook them. By the time the symptoms become more pronounced, the cancer may have already grown significantly or spread to other areas, making treatment more difficult.

Not every person with pancreatic cancer will experience all of these symptoms. In fact, many individuals with one or more of these symptoms have other medical conditions, not pancreatic cancer.

Jaundice

Jaundice is often one of the earliest symptoms of pancreatic cancer. It is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes and occurs due to a build-up of bile, a substance made in the liver to help digest fats.

Normally, bile flows from the liver to the gallbladder and then to the intestines. However, a pancreatic tumor can obstruct this flow, leading to jaundice. Additional symptoms may include itchy skin and dark-colored urine.

If the tumor is in a certain part of the pancreas, jaundice can appear even in the early stages of the disease. In some cases, jaundice may also occur if the cancer has spread to the liver.

Among individuals over 40, new-onset jaundice carries a significant risk of cancer, including but not limited to pancreatic cancer. However, there are many non-cancerous causes of jaundice as well.

Stomach or Back Pain

Upper abdominal pain is a common symptom of pancreatic cancer. Pain may also be felt in the back due to the location of the pancreas near the back of the abdominal cavity. This pain might worsen after eating. Nonetheless, these types of pain are often caused by other health issues unrelated to pancreatic cancer.

Nausea, Vomiting, and Weight Loss

Nausea and vomiting are frequently experienced by individuals with pancreatic cancer. The tumor may press against the stomach, intensifying vomiting. Unintentional weight loss due to reduced appetite and decreased food intake is also typical.

Changes in Bowel Habits

Pancreatic cancer may cause diarrhea due to a lack of pancreatic digestive enzymes. On the other hand, some individuals might experience constipation. Stools that appear greasy or light in color may indicate that bile and enzymes are not reaching the intestines to digest fat properly.

Diabetes

Diabetes can sometimes be an early indicator of pancreatic cancer. Damage to the pancreas can impair insulin production, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This condition is known as pancreatogenic or type 3c diabetes.

Diabetes may be detected through routine blood tests or may present with symptoms such as excessive thirst, hunger, or urination. While less common than other symptoms, about one in four people with pancreatic cancer are diagnosed with diabetes before being diagnosed with the cancer itself.

Blood Clots

Blood clots are another potential early sign of pancreatic cancer. These often form in deep veins of the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can cause leg pain, swelling, and warmth.

Sometimes, clots may travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism with symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath. This condition can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of Rare Pancreatic Cancer Types

Most pancreatic cancers are adenocarcinomas, and the symptoms listed above apply primarily to them. However, rare types of pancreatic cancer can have different or additional symptoms.

For example, an insulinoma, a type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, may produce excess insulin, leading to low blood sugar and symptoms such as irritability or headaches.

When To See a Healthcare Provider

If you are concerned about the possibility of pancreatic cancer, it is important to consult a healthcare provider promptly, especially if you have a family history of the disease. This is particularly crucial for individuals aged 60 or older who experience weight loss alongside abdominal or back pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or new-onset diabetes.

Immediate medical evaluation is also necessary for anyone with jaundice. Make sure to mention this symptom when scheduling an appointment, as it may warrant urgent care.

A Quick Review

Pancreatic cancer can present with symptoms such as abdominal or back pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and jaundice. Some individuals may also show signs of diabetes or blood clots. Unfortunately, due to its often late onset of symptoms, pancreatic cancer is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage, complicating treatment.