Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms

The pancreas is an organ in your abdomen that lies behind the lower part of your stomach. The pancreas secretes enzymes that aid digestion and hormones that help regulate metabolism.

Pancreatic cancer often has a poor outlook, even in the rare cases when it is diagnosed early. It typically grows and spreads rapidly and is usually detected in its later stages.

Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Unfortunately, signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer may not appear until the cancer is quite advanced and complete surgical removal is no longer possible. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Pain in the upper abdomen that may radiate to the back

  • Jaundice – yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes

  • Dark urine

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

  • Weight loss

  • Blood clots

When to See a Doctor

If you experience unexplained weight loss—with or without a new diagnosis of diabetes—or if you have persistent fatigue, abdominal pain or jaundice, make an appointment to see your doctor. Many diseases and conditions other than pancreatic cancer may cause similar signs and symptoms, so your doctor may check for these other conditions as well.

The Gastrointestinal Cancer Center of New Jersey

The Gastrointestinal Cancer Center of New Jersey offers expert, state-of-the-art care for oncology problems ranging from the simplest to the most complex. Our approach is designed specifically to integrate with a multidisciplinary care plan combining medicine, surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, as necessary. Our expert physicians emphasize patient-centered, compassionate care.

The Gastrointestinal Cancer Center provides expertise in the management of upper and lower gastrointestinal tract tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, melanoma and endocrine tumors. Our physicians are among the most accomplished and highly trained in the region, making every effort to apply minimally invasive techniques whenever feasible.