Symptom Of Pancreatic Cancer Include Feeling Pain In This Section Of The Body

The pancreas is the large gland located behind the stomach. Its primary role is to convert the food consumed into energy that powers the cells of the body. It does this by helping digest the food and regulates the body’s blood sugar.

Cancer of the pancreas occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, which then forms a tumor. Although the precise cause of pancreatic cancer is still unknown, risk factors like obesity and smoking have been linked to the illness.

Studies have shown that this type of cancer oftentimes affects older men as it was observed to occur in people who are 75 years old and above. During its early stages, symptoms of the illness can easily be confused with other common ailments. This makes it difficult for doctors to identify. By the time medical practitioners can identify it, usually, the condition is already in its advanced stages.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Among the first symptoms of the disease, according to the NHS, is the feeling of pain in the stomach or back area. At this time, the pain may come and go. It often becomes worse when the person has just finished eating or is about to lie down.

On the part of Pancreatic Cancer UK, they explained that the ailment usually begins with the feeling of general discomfort. This includes the feeling of pain or tenderness in the stomach area, which then spreads to the back.

Sudden weight loss, even if the person is not on a diet oftentimes, accompanies the painful feeling. The health organization said that this happens because the pancreas plays a major role in food digestion. The abnormal growth of cells, aside from triggering pain, can also cause weight loss.

Pancreatic cancer has also been observed to cause jaundice. This develops when a chemical substance called bilirubin builds up in the blood. This medical condition often causes urine to go dark, a pale poo, itchy skin, and the yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Other Warning Signs

Other pancreatic cancer warning signs include changes in bowel movements, indigestion, blood clots, and fever. Unfortunately, many of these symptoms are attributable to a host of other common medical conditions. It is, therefore, very important to schedule a visit to the GP if the symptoms begin suddenly.