Is Your Pancreas In Trouble? Signs You Must Not Ignore

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is observed every year in the month of November. The main motive for celebrating Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is to spread awareness to the public and also support those affected by pancreatic cancer.

What is the pancreas?

Just like any other organ in your body, the pancreas is also an organ that sits behind your stomach, just near your small intestine. According to reports, this pancreas releases enzymes to help a person digest food while regulating your body to manage glucose.

What are the signs I must know if my pancreas is in trouble?

The symptoms of pancreatic cancer may vary from person to person. However, here are some common signs of a person whose pancreas might be in trouble according to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Abdominal bloating: This condition is also known as Ascites, an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen which causes the belly to become swollen and distended. 

Unexplained weight loss: If you have noticed someone who has lost appetite and desire for certain food while experiencing unexplained weight loss, it could be a sign of cancer cachexia.

Jaundice: Is your skin or eyes turning into yellowish colour? this condition is called jaundice which is caused by “excess bilirubin - a component of bile - in the blood." explains Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. “A tumor in the head of the pancreas can cause narrowing of the bile duct and block the bile flowing from the gallbladder into the small intestine. Blockage of the bile duct causes a buildup of bilirubin."

Upset stomach: Someone whose pancreas is in trouble may experience diarrhoea and constipation.