What are the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer

The early symptoms of pancreatic cancer are usually not obvious, but may include indigestion, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, or mild yellowing of the skin. If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible for timely screening and confirmation.

1. Indigestion and decreased appetite

Pancreatic cancer in its early stages may interfere with the normal digestive function of the pancreas, causing upper abdominal discomfort, bloating or loss of appetite. Patients may find food difficult to digest, accompanied by a bad taste in the mouth or nausea. This symptom is often confused with common digestive diseases and is therefore easily overlooked. When similar symptoms occur, you can choose foods that are easier to digest, such as rice porridge, steamed eggs, etc., and perform gastrointestinal adjustments as appropriate. However, if the symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you should go to the hospital's internal medicine department in time to check pancreatic function.

2. Unexplained abdominal pain

Pancreatic cancer may cause intermittent dull pain in the middle or left upper abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back. This is usually due to the tumor compressing nerves or organs. Patients need to pay attention to the frequency, severity and specific circumstances of the pain. For abdominal pain, it is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise, stay in bed, and perform abdominal ultrasound or CT scans in a timely manner to rule out the possibility of lesions.

3. Weight loss and fatigue

Pancreatic cancer may cause patients to experience significant weight loss and fatigue in a short period of time. This is because pancreatic dysfunction leads to indigestion and fat absorption disorders, which in turn cause malnutrition. Patients should pay attention to dietary adjustments, appropriately supplement with high-quality protein and vitamins, and seek guidance from oncologists or gastroenterologists when necessary to further evaluate their condition.

4. Mild yellowing of the skin

Pancreatic cancer may block the bile duct, resulting in obstruction of bile outflow, yellowing of the skin or sclera, darker urine, and white stools. If the skin is yellow and accompanied by itching, you should immediately seek medical attention for relevant examinations, such as serum bilirubin measurement, abdominal imaging examinations, etc., to clarify the cause of the bile duct obstruction.

The early symptoms of pancreatic cancer are relatively hidden and easily confused with common diseases. However, if you experience unexplained abdominal pain, weight loss, indigestion or jaundice, you should go to a regular hospital for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible for early detection and treatment. Physical examinations are an effective way to detect pancreatic cancer. It is recommended to have regular internal medicine examinations and develop good living habits to reduce the risk of disease.