Symptoms of pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages. Signs and symptoms often appear as the tumour grows and causes changes in the body. Other health conditions can cause the same symptoms as pancreatic cancer.

See your doctor if you have these signs or symptoms:

  • yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes (called jaundice)
  • pain in the upper abdomen or upper back
  • fatty stools (called steatorrhea) that are light coloured, bulky and float in the toilet
  • unexplained weight loss
  • loss of appetite
  • fatigue
  • nausea and vomiting
  • indigestion
  • feeling full after a small meal
  • bloating
  • gas
  • diarrhea or constipation
  • itching
  • dark urine
  • fever and shivering
  • swelling of the legs

Expert review and references

  • American Cancer Society. Pancreatic Cancer. 2016.
  • American Society of Clinical Oncology. Pancreatic Cancer. 2015.
  • Pancreas. BC Cancer Agency. BC Cancer Agency. Revised ed. Vancouver, BC: BC Cancer Agency; 2013.
  • Pancreatic cancer. Cancer Research UK. CancerHelp UK. Cancer Research UK; 2012.
  • National Cancer Institute. Pancreatic Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) Patient Version. 2016.

Medical disclaimer

The information that the Canadian Cancer Society provides does not replace your relationship with your doctor. The information is for your general use, so be sure to talk to a qualified healthcare professional before making medical decisions or if you have questions about your health.

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