Pancreatic cancer in the initial stages usually does not cause any signs or symptoms. However, when the signs of the condition do appear, the cancer has mostly grown beyond the initial stages. This makes it crucial to know about its symptoms and keep a close eye out, to detect it as soon as possible for timely treatment.

Accordingly, some of the signs of pancreatic cancer are:

1. Jaundice
The yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice, is one of the first signs of pancreatic cancer. It is caused due to the accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow-brown substance made by the liver, in the body. This occurs when bile that contains bilirubin is not able to reach the intestines, where it breaks down fats and gets eliminated from the body, due to a block in the bile duct. In addition to a yellow tinge to the skin and eyes other signs of jaundice are dark urine, light-colored stools, and itchy skin. However, jaundice can also be caused by gallstones, hepatitis, and other conditions that affect the liver and bile duct.

2. Enlargement of the liver or gallbladder
As mentioned above if the cancer blocks the bile duct it can cause bile to collect in the gallbladder. This can cause a lump on the right side of the ribcage and can usually be felt by a doctor when conducting a physical examination. If the cancer spreads to the liver, it can result in liver enlargement, which can be visible on imaging tests.

3. Stomach and back pain
Another one of the common signs of pancreatic cancer is pain in the abdomen or back. This occurs if the cancer starts in the body or tail of the pancreas and exerts pressure on the surrounding organs or spreads to the nerves near the pancreas.

4. Lack of appetite and weight loss
These signs are common for all forms of cancer. Some people could also experience bloating as the tumor exerts pressure on the stomach, causing a feeling of fullness.

5. Nausea and vomiting
When the tumor or growth presses down on the stomach, it can make it difficult for food to reach it. This can result in nausea, pain, or vomiting that gets worse especially after eating.

6. Blood clots
The formation of blood clots, especially in the large veins of the legs, also known as deep vein thrombosis or DVT could also be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This could result in swelling, pain, and redness in the leg.

7. Diabetes
In some rare instances, pancreatic cancer can cause high blood sugar levels as it destroys the cells that produce insulin. Symptoms of diabetes such as increased hunger and thirst and an urge to urinate often would then be exhibited by patients.

It should be noted that these are symptoms mentioned above are not always signs of pancreatic cancer but could also be caused due to other health conditions. Hence, you should consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment advice at the first symptom.