The pancreas, a gland in the stomach, plays an important role in both digestion and hormone regulation. When it gets worse, it can lead to a number of serious health problems, including acute or chronic pancreatitis. fatty pancreas, pancreatic cancerand pancreatic endocrine or exocrine insufficiency. So it is important to know the early warning signs of pancreas damage to prevent life-threatening complications. So what are these signs? We contacted Dr. Sushrut Singh, Additional Director, Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital, Noida, who warned to be careful!

1. Constant stomach ache

Chronic pancreatitis often results in constant, excruciating pain in the upper abdomen, which may spread to the back. This discomfort may also come with loss of appetite, weight loss, and chronic diarrhea. “Diarrhea caused by pancreatic dysfunction is often accompanied by oily stools that float, stick to the toilet bowl and are difficult to flush out. In cases of acute pancreatitis, the pain is sudden and severe, and peaks within 30 minutes to an hour. It can spread to the back and is often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, fever, nausea, shortness of breath and low blood pressure. In severe cases, if not treated immediately, it can lead to sepsis, kidney failure and even death,” he said.

Dr. Singh explains that pancreatic disorders often disrupt digestion, causing the following symptoms:

– Bloating and indigestion

– nausea or vomiting

– diarrhea or constipation

These symptoms may overlap with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, it is important to seek medical attention if they worsen or change suddenly.

Weight loss without any effort or change in diet may be an early sign of pancreas damage, including pancreatic cancer. This may result from decreased insulin production or lack of digestive enzymes, leading to poor absorption of nutrients.

Dr. Singh explains that fatty pancreas and pancreatic insufficiency often result in clay-colored or oily stools, which have a foul odor and leave an oily film in the toilet bowl. These stools are a sign that the pancreas is not producing enough enzymes to digest fat effectively.

In cases of pancreatic cancer, jaundice-like symptoms may appear as a result of blockage in the bile duct. Jaundice may also be accompanied by itching of the skin, dark urine and yellow stools. Although these symptoms may not always indicate cancer, they should not be ignored.

Why are these signs important?

The early symptoms of pancreatic diseases, especially cancer, are often subtle and easy to dismiss. However, catching these signs early can greatly improve outcomes.

Dr. Singh shares the triggers of pancreas damage:

– Acute pancreatitis: Often the pancreatic duct becomes blocked due to heavy alcohol consumption or gallstones.

– Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation can cause permanent damage, often linked to lifestyle factors.

– Fatty pancreas: Similar to fatty liver, this condition is caused by poor diet and obesity.

– Pancreatic cancer: Although the exact causes vary, factors such as smoking, diabetes, and chronic pancreatitis increase the risk.

If pancreas disease is suspected, the doctor may recommend:

– Blood tests: amylase, lipase and CA 19-9 (a cancer marker).

– Stool test: Fecal elastase to assess enzyme levels.

– Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and PET CT to detect cancer.

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