Symptoms often become noticeable only when the disease is more advanced, and they can vary depending on which part of the pancreas is affected. One common warning sign is pain in the upper abdomen or back, especially after eating. Another major sign is jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin and eyes when the bile duct becomes blocked.
Other possible symptoms include unexplained weight loss, digestive problems, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or oily, foul-smelling stools. These can happen because the pancreas is no longer producing digestive enzymes properly. In some cases, pancreatic cancer may also be linked to sudden diabetes, fatigue, itching, fever, shivering, or blood clots.
Although the exact cause is not always clear, risk factors include smoking, obesity, age, and family history. Because the signs can be vague and easy to overlook, it is important to pay attention to persistent or unusual symptoms and seek medical advice early.
