What are the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a relatively hidden malignant tumor with no obvious early symptoms. It is recommended to seek medical attention in time and take appropriate treatment measures according to different situations. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial to improving survival rates. Early symptoms of pancreatic cancer include upper abdominal or back pain, loss of appetite and weight loss, jaundice, indigestion and nausea, changes in stool and symptoms of diabetes. The details are as follows:

1. Upper abdominal or back pain: Early pancreatic cancer is often accompanied by persistent pain in the upper abdomen or back, especially at night. If you have persistent abdominal or back pain, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for a detailed examination, such as abdominal ultrasound or CT scan.

2. Loss of appetite and weight loss: Patients may experience loss of appetite, anorexia, and unexplained weight loss. See a doctor promptly, and the doctor may perform blood tests and imaging tests to determine the cause.

3. Jaundice: Yellowing of the eyes and skin may be caused by a tumor blocking the bile duct, leading to bile stasis. If jaundice occurs, you should seek medical attention immediately, and you may need ERCP (endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiopancreatography) or surgical treatment.

4. Indigestion and nausea: Because the tumor affects the function of the pancreas, the secretion of digestive enzymes is insufficient, resulting in indigestion, bloating and nausea. If persistent indigestion occurs, you should see a doctor, who may prescribe pancreatic enzyme replacement drugs and conduct further examinations.

5. Stool changes: Lighter, greasy stools accompanied by diarrhea may be caused by impaired pancreatic function. If the stool color is abnormal, you should seek medical attention, and stool testing and imaging tests may be required.

6. Symptoms of diabetes: Pancreatic cancer patients may suddenly develop symptoms of diabetes, such as thirst, polyuria, and weight loss. If symptoms of diabetes suddenly occur, blood sugar should be checked and the doctor should be consulted whether further pancreatic examination is needed.

In order to reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer, it is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular physical examinations. In particular, patients with a family history of the disease or high-risk factors should attach great importance to regular examinations. If relevant symptoms occur, you should seek medical attention in time and undergo detailed examinations and diagnosis and treatment under the guidance of a doctor so as to detect and treat it early, reduce the risk of the disease, and improve the survival rate.