Pancreatic cancer can cause a range of symptoms, but many are nonspecific and may not appear until the disease is advanced. If you notice new, persistent, or worsening signs, especially in older adults, it’s important to seek medical evaluation. Common symptoms (exocrine pancreatic cancers)
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), which can be accompanied by dark urine and pale stools
- Upper abdominal or back pain, sometimes described as a dull ache or pressure
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Indigestion, feeling full quickly, or early satiety
- Nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits
- Fatigue or weakness
- Changes in stool that may be pale, greasy, or foul-smelling due to fat malabsorption
- Enlarged gallbladder or liver in some cases
- New or unusually abrupt onset of diabetes in adults (or worsening control of blood sugar)
Endocrine pancreatic cancers (less common) can produce hormone-related symptoms, depending on the active hormone:
- Symptoms related to excess insulin (hypoglycemia: weakness, confusion, sweating)
- Other hormone-related effects depending on the tumor type
Important context and next steps
- Early-stage pancreatic cancer often has no noticeable symptoms, which is why delays in diagnosis occur; symptoms typically become more apparent as the disease progresses. This nuance is why timely medical evaluation for persistent symptoms is crucial.
- Some symptoms overlap with benign conditions (e.g., ulcers, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis), so a clinician will assess risk factors, perform a physical exam, and likely order imaging and blood tests to determine the cause.
- If you have risk factors (age over 50, family history, smoking, certain genetic syndromes, long-standing diabetes, chronic pancreatitis) or a new, unexplained set of symptoms, discuss them with a healthcare provider promptly.
When to seek urgent care
- Severe abdominal pain with vomiting, confusion, or signs of dehydration
- Jaundice with dark urine or pale stools that persists
- Sudden, unintentional weight loss or severe fatigue
If you’d like, I can tailor this information to your specific situation (for example, age, symptoms you’re experiencing, and risk factors) or help you find reputable resources in your region.
