In most cases, the signs of pancreatic cancer only develop when cancer cells multiply and start spreading to other parts of the body. Therefore, your best defense against it is by recognizing the early warning signs of the condition. Also, you should visit your doctor for an immediate diagnosis if you experience any symptoms. Read to know more about the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer.

1. Persistent pain
As cancer advances, it can put pressure on your nerves or other organs that can cause persistent discomfort and pain. It can also lead to congestion in your digestive tract that can also cause distressing symptoms in the abdomen and lower back.

2. Unexpected weight loss
Pancreatic cancer can also affect your appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Sometimes, it may also produce hormones that interfere with your body’s ability to extract nutrients from the food consumed. So, even if you are consuming a regular diet, you may still witness inexplicable weight loss.

3. Excessive thirst or hunger
Usually, these symptoms are associated with diabetes, a lifestyle condition that prevents your body from producing enough insulin to control the blood sugar. Diabetes can also occur when cancer causes damage to cells in your pancreas that are responsible for producing insulin.

4. Greasy and light-colored stools
Bilirubin in your body gives the brown color to stools. However, when the tumor obstructs the bile duct, it can change the stool’s color to brown or pale. Pancreatic cancer can also make it harder for the intestines to digest fats, making the stool greasy.

5. Abdomen pain
When cancer-causing cells grow in the body, it starts to press on adjacent organs. Cancer cells can also affect the nerves adjoining the pancreas that is often responsible for causing back pain. However, it is important to note that back and abdomen pain may also be caused due to multiple other factors other than pancreatic cancer.

6. Jaundice
When the tumor in your pancreas blocks the common bile duct, it can cause the sclera (eyes) and skin to turn yellow. It normally happens due to the body’s inability to excrete bilirubin which further leads to its accumulation, causing jaundice.

7. Nausea
Cancer can also partially block the stomach, making it harder for digested food to pass. It can cause nausea and pain after your meals.

8. Bloating
Pancreatic cancer can cause digestive problems, like gas and bloating. It usually happens due to the excess accumulation of fluids in the abdomen. As a result, your belly stretches out to cause bloating.

9. Blood clots
A blood clot is usually one of the first signs of pancreatic cancer. In some cases, a blood clot may travel to the lungs, causing chest pains and breathing problems.

If you have one or more of these symptoms, it does not always mean that you have pancreatic cancer. However, it is advisable to discuss it with your doctor.