Many people with pancreatic cancer experience jaundice by the time they visit a doctor. In most cases, it’s accompanied by pain, though some may have jaundice without any pain at all.
Back pain
Abdominal or back pain—or sometimes both—is a common symptom of pancreatic cancer.
The discomfort often begins as a vague ache or tenderness in the upper abdomen and may gradually radiate to the back. Pain experiences can differ widely. Some people may not feel any pain, while others notice it comes and goes at first, then becomes more persistent over time.
It might worsen when lying down and improve slightly when leaning forward. For some, eating can also make the pain more noticeable.
Itchy skin
The accumulation of bilirubin that leads to jaundice can also cause another potential symptom of pancreatic cancer: persistent itchy skin.
This type of itching—known as pruritus—may not have an obvious cause and often doesn’t improve over time. If you experience ongoing itchiness without a clear explanation, it’s important to speak with your doctor, as it could be a sign of an underlying condition like pancreatic cancer.
Sickness
Nausea or vomiting can occur if you develop jaundice or if the pancreas becomes inflamed—both of which can disrupt the body’s delicate chemical balance.
