Symptom #10: New-Onset Diabetes
A new onset of diabetes can also indicate underlying pancreatic cancer. The pancreas plays an integral role in regulating blood glucose levels by secreting the hormones insulin and glucagon. When tumors develop within pancreatic tissue, the secretion of these glucose-regulating hormones is disrupted. As the cancer progresses, it can lead to insufficient insulin production, resulting in hyperglycemia, medically known as diabetes. If you suddenly develop diabetes, consult your doctor promptly.
Symptom #11: Fatigue
Fatigue is another potential sign of pancreatic problems. As tumors grow, they drain energy resources and deprive healthy tissues of essential nutrients needed to function properly. Furthermore, tumors infiltrate and destroy red blood cells, which carry oxygen and are vital for energy production, leading to rapid muscle fatigue even with simple tasks. Combined with poor food intake due to changes in appetite and digestion, profound fatigue can quickly set in.
Symptom #12: Blood Clots
Tumors secrete a variety of growth signals and vascular substances that make the blood abnormally viscous. This causes red blood cells to clump together, increasing blood viscosity and activating clotting mechanisms. Small clots begin to form in the blood vessels. If fragments of these clots break off, they can travel to the lungs, obstructing circulation and causing shortness of breath. The reduced blood flow to the legs due to the clots can cause calf pain when walking.
