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 the doctors. Symptoms that do develop are often vague. Individuals 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, unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite. A person with advanced pancreatic cancer may experience all of these symptoms and others including ascites and blood clots. Ascites is the abnormal build up of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Blood clots most often form in the legs and may easily go unnoticed. 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 is experiencing one or more of the symptoms mentioned in this section, it does not mean that he or she has pancreatic cancer. There are other medical problems or conditions that may also cause these or similar symptoms. Therefore, anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult with his or her 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. 080922