Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Cancer of the pancreas is sometimes called a “silent” disease because symptoms are not usually present in early stages. Many patients have advanced disease by the time it becomes noticeable to the patient and doctors. If symptoms are present, they are often vague. Patients may experience different symptoms depending on the location, type and stage of the tumor. Symptoms that commonly lead to diagnosis include: jaundice, abdominal and/or back pain, diabetes, unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite. A person with advanced pancreatic cancer may also experience ascites and blood clots. Symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, digestive difficulties and depression may occur at any time.

Follow the links below for more information about each symptom commonly associated with pancreatic cancer. If someone experiences one or more of the symptoms mentioned in this section, it does not mean that he or she has pancreatic cancer. There are other common medical problems or conditions that may also cause these or similar symptoms. Therefore, anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult with a doctor. Only a doctor can diagnose the cause of an individual’s symptoms.

Jaundice
Weight loss
Pain
Digestive difficulties
Changes in stools
Blood clots
Diabetes
Ascites
Neuroendocrine tumors
Other related conditions

The information and services provided by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. are for informational purposes only. The information and services are not intended to be substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are ill, or suspect that you are ill, see a doctor immediately! The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network does not recommend nor endorse any specific physicians, products or treatments even though they may be mentioned on this site. In addition, please note that any personal information you provide to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's associates during telephone and/or email consultations may be stored in a secure database to assist the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. in providing you with the best service possible. Portions of the constituent data stored in this database may be used to inform future programs and services of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc., and may be provided in aggregate form to third parties to guide future pancreatic cancer research and treatment efforts. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. will not provide personal identifying information (such as your name or contact information) to third parties without your advanced written consent. 111230