Early warning signs of pancreatic problems can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, and changes in bowel habits.
Abdominal pain is one of the most noticeable symptoms of pancreatic problems. It can be felt in the upper left or right side of the abdomen and may be accompanied by swelling, tenderness, or a feeling of fullness. Additionally, the pain may become worse after eating, especially if the person has eaten a high-fat meal.
Jaundice is another potential warning sign of pancreatic problems. Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes caused by an increase in the level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment, in the blood.
Weight loss is also a potential early warning sign of pancreatic problems. Weight loss can occur even with normal eating habits and is usually the result of malabsorption of food due to the pancreas not producing enough digestive enzymes.
Changes in bowel habits can also be a sign of pancreatic problems. Diarrhea, excessive gas, or greasy stools can all be warning signs. These changes can be caused by the pancreas not producing enough digestive enzymes to break down food.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible for further evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic problems may help prevent more serious complications.