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10 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer You Should Never Ignore
Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to recognize in its early stages because its symptoms may be subtle, nonspecific, or easily mistaken for common digestive problems. The pancreas is a small organ located behind the stomach that plays an important role in digestion and blood-sugar regulation. When abnormal cells begin growing in the pancreas, the changes may not cause obvious symptoms right away.
That is one reason it is important to pay attention to persistent or unexplained changes in your health. A symptom does not automatically mean you have pancreatic cancer—many of these signs can be caused by much more common conditions. However, symptoms that are new, persistent, worsening, or occurring in combination deserve medical attention.
Below are 10 possible warning signs that should not simply be ignored.
1. Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes
One of the more recognizable signs associated with pancreatic cancer is jaundice, which causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to appear yellow.
Jaundice occurs when bilirubin, a yellow substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells, builds up in the body. A tumor in the pancreas can sometimes block the bile duct, preventing bile from flowing normally into the digestive system.
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Jaundice may also cause:
Dark-colored urine
Pale or clay-colored stools
Itchy skin
Importantly, jaundice has many possible causes, including gallstones, liver disease, hepatitis, and other conditions. Nevertheless, unexplained yellowing of the skin or eyes should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional.