Let’s find out ‘What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Pancreatic Cancer?’ Early-stage pancreatic cancer exhibits few, if any, symptoms, which makes identification challenging. Late detection decreases the efficiency of treatments and the likelihood of survival because symptoms typically don’t appear until the cancer has advanced to its later stages or spread to other parts of the body.
Numerous pancreatic cancer symptoms could also be indicators of other medical conditions, which complicates the situation. The location of the cancer’s onset in the pancreas affects the symptoms as well. Based on your family’s genome, genetic tests may reveal whether you are predisposed to particular types of cancer.
You and your doctor should talk about whether you should have these tests as well as the limitations of screening for disorders like pancreatic cancer. You should be aware of the following symptoms and indicators of pancreatic cancer.
Genetic Screening
According to the American Cancer Society, your risk of acquiring pancreatic cancer may be increased if your family has a history of cancer or if you have particular forms of cancer. Before doing genetic testing, the society encourages speaking with a genetic counselor, nurse, or doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. You might ask your doctor if you should undertake early screening specifically for pancreatic cancer if such testing suggest a genetic propensity to cancer.
Jaundice
One of the earliest signs of pancreatic cancer is jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes (as well as an indicator of other health issues, such as liver problems or gallstones). The presence of jaundice may indicate pancreatic cancer close to the common bile duct in the pancreatic head. Jaundice, however, may not appear right away in cases of pancreatic cancer in the body or tail. Dark urine, yellowish or oily feces, itching skin, and jaundice are all possible companion symptoms.
Unintended Weight Loss
Weight loss and decreased appetite are side effects of pancreatic cancer. Additionally, the malignancy may affect the stomach, resulting in nausea and vomiting. “Cancer cachexia, which is another name for tumor-induced weight loss, is a complicated issue. It has an impact on how the body utilizes protein and calories.
Cancer cachexia can impair appetite, cause the body to expend more calories than usual, and degrade protein in the muscles. Cancer cachexia may be present in a person who is eating regular meals and snacks but is losing weight “The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network makes this claim.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal discomfort can be caused by tumors that start in the body or tail of the pancreas and enlarge to the point where they press against other internal organs. They may also result in bloating or abdominal edema. Back pain may result from the cancer’s potential impact on the pancreas’ surrounding nerves. Back discomfort by itself may be a sign of conditions other than pancreatic cancer.
Other Symptoms
Among other symptoms, pancreatic cancer may result in fatigue, diabetes that develops or worsens, blood clots, or digestive issues. Such signs, either individually or collectively, may point to additional medical issues. Speak to your doctor if you are worried they could be an indication of pancreatic cancer.
