Symptoms of pancreatic cancer are usually vague, and are not always obvious at the beginning of the disease. However, doctors can diagnose it during a physical examination. If you are experiencing some of these symptoms, you should visit a doctor right away. You may be able to get a diagnosis by taking a urine sample or a blood sample. You may also be sent to a hospital for further tests.
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be uncomfortable and may cause you to lose weight. If you are losing weight rapidly, it is important to get checked immediately. This is because the tumor could have spread to other parts of the body. For instance, a blood clot could have formed in a deep vein in your leg.
Jaundice is another symptom that may occur with pancreatic cancer. This is caused by the build-up of bilirubin in the bloodstream. It causes a yellowing of the skin, eyes and urine. A doctor will be able to tell whether you are experiencing jaundice by looking at your stools or urine. A patient with jaundice should also be checked for liver problems. A bile duct is located near the pancreas, and can be blocked if a tumor blocks it. When a blockage occurs, bile is unable to pass into the intestines.
Pain and nausea are also symptoms of pancreatic cancer. These symptoms can be uncomfortable, and may occur in the back, neck or abdomen. They are also more common in the tail of the pancreas. Some patients report pain without a specific location, and it is important to discuss this with your doctor. The pain can be worse when you lie down or after you eat. It can also be felt when you pass wind or pass a burp.
You may also experience bloating, feeling sick, or heartburn. The pain may come on suddenly or become constant. A doctor may prescribe medications to help with these symptoms. This will also help you feel more comfortable.
You may also experience fatigue, which can be a symptom of many different medical conditions. If your fatigue does not seem to go away after a few weeks, you should see your doctor. Having a loss of weight is also a symptom of pancreatic cancer, as a tumor can stop the body from breaking down fat properly.
If you have pancreatic cancer, it is important to maintain a healthy weight. This can help prevent tumors from growing. However, you should not lose too much weight if you are not trying to. If you have lost a lot of weight recently, it may be a sign of a stressful time in your life. You should also talk to your doctor about your diet. If you are eating lots of red meat or heavy alcohol, you may be at higher risk for pancreatic cancer.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of pancreatic cancer, you should get checked immediately. You may be able to get cured by surgery or chemotherapy. You may also be able to prevent the tumor from spreading to other areas of your body with radiation therapy.
