Generally, pancreatic cancer patients complain of back pain. These pains could be related to the tumor growing in the pancreas, which may have spread to nearby nerves. However, it is not uncommon to experience such pains even after other conditions have been ruled out. Other pancreatic cancer symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Despite this, it is important to note that all these symptoms are not always indicative of the disease.
Some symptoms of pancreatic cancer may be less obvious than others. A tumor containing a tumour may be causing pain and discomfort. Usually, the pain is felt above the belly button or below the breast area. However, some patients may experience pain in their tummy but cannot pinpoint its location. This is because many diseases can cause tummy pain. Therefore, if you feel any of these symptoms, you should visit your GP.
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer may also include stomach pain, indigestion, or nausea. These can occur when the tumor presses against the small intestine or the stomach. The food that you eat may remain in your stomach, causing difficulties with digestion. Other digestive symptoms may include vomiting and pain when eating. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will discuss your specific symptoms and determine whether they could be signs of pancreatic cancer.
Although the first symptoms of pancreatic cancer are generally non-specific, doctors can sometimes perform additional tests to visualize the extent of the cancer’s spread and determine the best way to treat it. Stages of pancreatic cancer depend on the size of the tumor. Early stage cancer occurs in the pancreatic ducts and lining. An early stage tumor has not spread to nearby organs or blood vessels. In some cases, the cancer has already metastasized to other parts of the body.
Besides pancreatic cancer, patients may also experience other symptoms. These symptoms can mimic those of other conditions, such as diabetes or stomach problems. While no known cause for pancreatic cancer has been found, several risk factors have been identified. It is important to know the risk factors and to be evaluated accordingly. People with a family history of cancer should see their doctor for a pancreatic biopsy. Having a family member with the disease can increase the chances of survival.
Often, pancreatic cancer does not have any symptoms immediately. The only symptoms are vague and can include yellowing of the skin, pain in the abdomen, nausea, and fatigue. Because the pancreas is hidden behind other organs, health care providers cannot see a tumor during routine examinations. Instead, they use blood tests, imaging tests, and other tests to determine the cause of the pain. This is why a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is critical.
Other symptoms of pancreatic cancer include gallbladder swelling, abdominal pain, and yellowing of the skin. Some individuals experience nausea and vomiting, and others may have a loss of appetite or fatigue. Nevertheless, the disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Its symptoms may be very vague and are not easy to distinguish from other types of cancer. The only way to diagnose pancreatic cancer is by undergoing a biopsy.
