Symptom 4. Changes in Bowel Habits
Alterations in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or pale, foul-smelling stools, can be early indicators of pancreatic cancer. These changes may occur due to the tumor’s impact on the pancreas’s ability to produce digestive enzymes, leading to malabsorption and altered digestion.
Diarrhea can result from the reduced production of digestive enzymes, leading to undigested food passing through the digestive system too quickly. Conversely, constipation may occur if the tumor’s growth obstructs the bowel or affects the nerves responsible for bowel movements.
Pale, greasy, and foul-smelling stools, known as steatorrhea, can also be an early sign of pancreatic cancer. This occurs when the body has difficulty digesting fats due to a lack of pancreatic enzymes, causing fat to be excreted in the stool.
If you notice changes in your bowel habits that persist for more than a few weeks, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. While these symptoms can be indicative of various gastrointestinal conditions, it’s crucial to rule out pancreatic cancer as the underlying cause. (3)
