8 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer – Never to Be Ignored
Pancreatic cancer is among the deadliest cancers out there. Often, it doesn’t show any signs until it has grown quite big or spread beyond the pancreas.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) says that just about 2 percent of folks will get diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in their lifetime. This is largely because catching it early, when it’s more treatable, is really tough. Having one or more of the symptoms listed below doesn’t directly mean you have pancreatic cancer, as many of these signs could be due to other health issues.
However, it’s crucial to get them checked by a cancer doctor to figure out the cause and get the right treatment if needed.
Here are the most common signs of pancreatic cancer that you shouldn’t ignore:
Yellow Skin and Eyes
Also known as jaundice. Cancers starting in the pancreas's head are close to the common bile duct. Yellowing of the skin and eyes can signal many health problems, including issues with alcohol, liver failure, and pancreatic cancer.
And for those who don't smoke but hang around smoke, listen up! Secondhand smoke at home or work can bump up your lung cancer risk by 20–30%. No amount of secondhand smoke is safe, and even a little exposure can be risky. Making indoor spaces smoke-free at work and public areas is the way to go.
Bloating – Looking Four Months Pregnant
Feeling bloated after a big meal is normal, but if it persists for days, it's not. Growing pancreatic tumors can make your belly swell. This is often the first sign women notice but tend to ignore without consulting a doctor.
Loss of Appetite
Feeling nauseous and full without eating much is an early sign of pancreatic cancer. Eating might
even become painful.
Rapid Weight Loss
Due to loss of appetite, you might lose about 5% of your body weight in 6 months to a year without any other reason. If you notice such weight loss, it's time to see a doctor.
Your Lower Back is Killing You
A growing pancreatic tumor can pressure your lower spine and back muscles, leading to constant, dull pain. Women often mistake this for menstrual cramp pain.
Your Pee Looks More Like Tea
Normally, yellow urine indicates dehydration, but a dark brown color might be the first sign of jaundice people notice. This change in urine color is due to increased bilirubin levels in the blood, as explained by the American Cancer Society.
Taking steps towards lung cancer awareness and prevention starts with you. Let's join hands for a healthier, lung cancer-free future.
Itchy Skin
If your skin is itchy all over without a clear reason like bug bites or allergies, and lotion doesn't help, it could be an early warning of jaundice and pancreatic cancer.
Your Stomach Hurts
A constant mild stomach ache, no matter what you eat, could be due to a pancreatic tumor. While it might feel silly to go to a doctor for a stomach ache, this kind of pain can signal early pancreatic cancer.
