Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer

A sign is something that can be observed and recognized by a doctor or healthcare professional (for example, a rash). A symptom is something that only the person experiencing it can feel and know (for example, pain or tiredness).

Pancreatic cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms appear once the tumour grows into surrounding tissues and organs. The signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer depend on where the tumour is located in the pancreas.

The signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer can also be caused by other health conditions. It is important to have any unusual symptoms checked by a doctor.

Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer are:

• pain in the upper abdomen or upper back
  • may come and go or be constant
  • gradually worsens
  • aggravated by lying flat, so may be more severe at night
• weight loss
• jaundice
• itching
• changes in digestion
  • indigestion
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • loss of appetite
  • feeling full after a small meal
  • bloating
  • gas
• changes in bowel habits
  • fatty stools (steatorrhea) – pale-coloured, bulky stools that float in the toilet
  • diarrhea
• fatigue
• gastrointestinal bleeding
• increased blood sugar (diabetes)
• enlarged spleen
• swelling of the legs
• ascites (abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen)
• malaise (a general feeling of discomfort or illness)
• weakness
• depression
• anxiety

Rare signs and symptoms

Rare signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer are:

• blood clots in the legs or arms (Trousseau syndrome)
• enlarged liver and gallbladder (Courvoisier sign)
• swollen lymph node in the left collarbone area (Virchow node)
• metastases in the lymph nodes near the belly button, or navel (Sister Mary Joseph nodes)