7. Changes in Stool
The pancreas produces enzymes that help digest fat. When this function is compromised, you may notice:
- Floating stools that are difficult to flush
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Pale, greasy, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
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Diarrhea or constipation that persists
What to notice: Changes in bowel habits that last for weeks without explanation.
8. Gallbladder or Liver Enlargement
Sometimes the first sign is discovered during a physical exam—an enlarged gallbladder or liver. In some cases, the gallbladder can be felt as a mass (Courvoisier’s sign).
What to notice: A sense of fullness or a palpable lump in the upper right abdomen.
9. Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
Pancreatic cancer increases the risk of blood clots—a condition called Trousseau syndrome. Clots can form in the legs (DVT), lungs (pulmonary embolism), or other unusual locations.
What to notice:
-
Swelling, pain, or redness in one leg
-
Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
-
Unexplained blood clots, especially if you have no risk factors
10. Fatigue
Overwhelming, unexplained tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest is a common but easily dismissed symptom of many illnesses—including pancreatic cancer.
What to notice: Fatigue that interferes with daily life, feels different from normal tiredness, and persists despite adequate sleep.
When to See a Doctor
Don’t panic. Having one or even several of these symptoms doesn’t mean you have pancreatic cancer. Most of the time, these symptoms are caused by far less serious conditions.
But do pay attention. If you have:
-
Jaundice (yellowing) – see a doctor immediately
-
Persistent symptoms that last more than 2 weeks without explanation
-
New-onset diabetes after age 50
-
Unexplained weight loss
-
A combination of several symptoms
…make an appointment with your primary care provider. Be specific about what you’ve noticed and for how long.
Why Early Detection Matters
Pancreatic cancer is challenging to detect early because:
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The pancreas is deep inside the body
-
Early symptoms are vague and easily dismissed
-
There’s no routine screening test for the general population
But when caught early—before it has spread—treatment options are more effective and outcomes improve significantly.
You are your own best advocate. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Push for answers. Ask questions.
Risk Factors to Know
While anyone can develop pancreatic cancer, certain factors increase risk:
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Age – Most common after 60
-
Smoking – Doubles the risk
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Obesity
-
Chronic pancreatitis
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Diabetes
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Family history – 10% of cases have a genetic component
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Certain inherited genetic syndromes – BRCA mutations, Lynch syndrome, others
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