The pancreas is one of those organs that often flies under our radar—most of us don’t really think about what it does on a daily basis. It’s not surprising, then, that many signs of pancreatic issues can go unnoticed or be mistaken for other health conditions. Given this, it makes sense that pancreatic cancer has such a low survival rate and that issues like pancreatitis can be particularly challenging.
“One reason survival rates are low is that spotting pancreatic cancer early is really tough,” notes Andrew Hendifar, M.D., who specializes in pancreatic cancer at a cancer center in Los Angeles. Ted Epperly, M.D., a family physician and health center executive, agrees that early detection is just as tricky for non-cancerous pancreatic problems.
The pancreas itself is a flattened organ located deep in the abdomen that produces hormones and digestive enzymes, according to the Cleveland Clinic. While symptoms may be subtle, both doctors highlight several warning signs that should prompt a visit to your physician. Here are some key indicators.
Pale, floating stool
If your stool appears light in color and floats, it could indicate that your pancreas isn’t functioning well enough to absorb nutrients. “The enzymes produced by the pancreas help digest dietary fats,” explains Dr. Hendifar. If your pancreas isn’t producing these enzymes effectively, the result could be stool that is pale and less dense, sometimes even greasy. “You might see an oily film in the toilet water,” he adds. If this happens frequently, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor.
Radiating back pain
Pain in the abdomen is a common symptom for both pancreatic cancer and acute pancreatitis, with each presenting differently. Dr. Epperly warns that if the pain starts in the middle and radiates to your back, and especially if it persists for weeks, this might be a sign of pancreatic cancer. If you’ve seen a doctor and are on medications for acid reflux that aren’t working, it’s worth revisiting the issue with your healthcare provider. Conversely, if the pain is sudden and concentrated in the abdomen, that may point to acute pancreatitis. However, keep in mind that many conditions can cause abdominal pain, so if your symptoms persist, it’s best to get checked out.
An unexpected diabetes diagnosis
The pancreas is crucial in producing hormones like insulin and glucagon that balance blood sugar levels. Dr. Hendifar mentions that when the pancreas malfunctions, it’s not uncommon for individuals to develop type 2 diabetes. If you’ve maintained a balanced weight and healthy diet, and suddenly find yourself diagnosed with diabetes, it might be time for a further look at your pancreas. The same goes for individuals whose diabetes becomes unexpectedly harder to manage.
Nausea from high-fat foods
If you experience nausea or vomiting after consuming fatty foods, that could be a sign of pancreatic issues, according to Dr. Hendifar. The pancreas plays a role in fat digestion, so problems with it can lead to nausea when eating foods like hamburgers or avocados. Dr. Epperly adds that pancreatitis is more likely to cause sudden bouts of vomiting compared to pancreatic cancer.
Rapid weight loss
You might attribute rapid weight loss to dietary changes, especially if that’s your goal. But if you’re losing weight unexpectedly, particularly alongside other symptoms like the described radiating pain, it could indicate pancreatic disease. A study found that 24% of individuals with acute pancreatitis lost significant weight within a year after their diagnosis. Other conditions, including thyroid issues, can also cause weight loss, so it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider.
Interestingly, when people think of the pancreas, many associate it primarily with cancer, which is unfortunately one of the deadliest forms of cancer based on five-year survival rates. The difficulty in detecting pancreatic cancer early is a key factor in these low survival rates. Awareness of pancreatic health and its signs can be crucial.
