Pancreatic Cancer

Symptoms

Pancreatic cancer typically does not exhibit noticeable symptoms early in its development. The most classic symptom is that of painless jaundice, which occurs because the tumor obstructs the bile duct and causes yellow eyes and dark urine.

Pancreatic cancer symptoms can include:

• Abdominal pressure
• Abdominal pain
• Yellowing of the eyes and skin
• Dark urine

As the cancer spreads, some people experience pain in the upper abdomen and back. Activities such as eating or lying down may cause increased pain. Nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss and the onset of diabetes may also be signs of pancreatic cancer.

One form of pancreatic cancer, islet cell cancer, can cause the pancreas to make excess insulin or other hormones. Weakness, dizziness, chills, muscle spasms or diarrhea may result.