3. Overwhelming Fatigue That Rest Doesn’t Fix
Not just “tired” — but bone-deep exhaustion that sleep doesn’t touch.
Poor nutrient absorption and the body’s immune response both drain energy.
2. Blood Clots in Legs or Lungs (Deep Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolism)
Pancreatic cancer makes blood more likely to clot. Sometimes the first hospital visit is for a swollen leg or sudden shortness of breath.
1. Ongoing Digestive Issues That Won’t Resolve
Bloating, indigestion, or discomfort after meals that lasts weeks or months.
This is the #1 symptom doctors say patients mention — but also the one most commonly dismissed as IBS, food intolerance, or “getting older.”
Quick Comparison: How to Tell If It’s Serious
Symptom Common Benign Cause Red Flag When…
Abdominal pain Gas, overeating Persists >2 weeks, radiates to back
Back pain Muscle strain Worsens lying down, better leaning forward
Weight loss Diet or stress >10 lbs without trying
Stool changes Temporary diet change Greasy/pale for weeks
New diabetes Family history, weight gain Sudden onset after age 50, no risk factors
What to Do If Several Symptoms Sound Familiar
Start a simple symptom journal today — write down what you feel and when.
Note any patterns (worse after eating? better sitting up?).
Bring your journal to your doctor and specifically mention pancreatic concerns.
Ask about blood tests (CA19-9
