What to notice: Persistent nausea that doesn’t have an obvious cause (like a stomach bug) and doesn’t resolve.
7. Changes in Stool
The pancreas produces enzymes that help digest fat. When this function is compromised, you may notice:
What to notice:
Floating stools that are difficult to flush
Pale, greasy, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
Diarrhea or constipation that persists
What to do: Changes in bowel habits that last for weeks without explanation deserve attention.
8. Gallbladder or Liver Enlargement
Sometimes the first sign is discovered during a physical exam—an enlarged gallbladder or liver. In some cases, the gallbladder can be felt as a mass.
What to notice: A sense of fullness or a palpable lump in the upper right abdomen.
9. Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
Pancreatic cancer increases the risk of blood clots—a condition called Trousseau syndrome. Clots can form in the legs (DVT), lungs (pulmonary embolism), or other unusual locations.
What to notice:
Swelling, pain, or redness in one leg
Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
