digestive disorders
Pancreatic Cancer
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
In the early stages, pancreatic cancer typically causes no symptoms until the tumor has grown large. Thus, at the time of diagnosis, the tumor has already spread (metastasized) beyond the pancreas in 90% of cases. Eventually, most people develop severe upper abdominal pain, which may also be felt in the middle of the back. The pain may be relieved by bending forward or assuming the fetal position. Weight loss is common. Adenocarcinomas in the head of the pancreas can interfere with the drainage of bile (the digestive fluid produced by the liver) into the small intestine (see Gallbladder and Biliary Tract ). Therefore, Adenocarcinomas in the body or tail of the pancreas may obstruct the vein draining the spleen (the organ that produces, monitors, stores, and destroys blood cells), resulting in enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly). Obstruction can also cause the veins to become swollen and twisted (varicose) around the esophagus ( Esophageal Varices ) and stomach. Severe bleeding may result, particularly from the esophagus, if these varicose veins rupture. causes Diabetes Mellitus (DM) . Thus, because pancreatic cancer cells replace normal pancreatic cells, diabetes develops in up to half of people with pancreatic cancer, which leads to symptoms of high blood sugar, such as frequently urinating large volumes and excessive thirst. Pancreatic cancer can also interfere with production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas, resulting in problems breaking down food and absorbing nutrients ( Overview of Malabsorption ). This malabsorption causes bloating and gas and a watery, greasy, and/or foul-smelling diarrhea, leading to weight loss and vitamin deficiencies. 