Despite its diminutive size, the pancreas is essential to preserving your general health. This gland, which is found behind your stomach, controls blood sugar levels and aids in digestion. Inadequate function of the pancreas can result in severe health problems. The following five indicators suggest that something is wrong with your pancreas:
1. Pain in the abdomen
Abdominal pain is among the most prevalent signs and symptoms of pancreatic issues. Usually originating in the upper abdomen, this pain may spread to your back. It could be an indication of pancreatitis, an acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas. While chronic pancreatitis develops gradually over many years, acute pancreatitis occurs quickly and may only last a few days. In addition, pancreatic cancer, a dangerous condition that needs to be treated right once, can cause abdominal pain. It’s crucial to speak with a healthcare professional if you have severe or chronic stomach pain.
2. Pain in the back
Additionally, back pain may indicate pancreatic problems. As with abdominal pain, pancreatic-related back pain frequently starts in the upper abdomen and radiates to the back. When lying down or a few hours after eating, the discomfort may get stronger in cases of pancreatic cancer. Standard pain management techniques may not be effective for this kind of persistent discomfort. It’s important to see a doctor if you experience persistent, unexplained back discomfort.
3. Distress and Regurgitation
Throwing up and feeling queasy may be signs of pancreatic issues. These symptoms can be caused by pancreatic cancer as well as pancreatitis. Nausea and vomiting are caused by disruptions in the regular digestive processes caused by an inflamed pancreas. It’s crucial to consult a doctor if these symptoms are ongoing and coincide with abdominal pain. Dehydration and other consequences can result from chronic nausea and vomiting, therefore treating the underlying cause is crucial.
4. A fever
Fever, or an abnormally high body temperature, may indicate pancreatitis. A fever can result from the pancreas’ secretion of enzymes that irritate and congest blood vessels when it becomes inflamed. You may have a pancreatic infection or inflammation if your temperature is followed by nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. A healthcare provider should always be consulted for an assessment of a persistent fever in order to identify the reason and the best course of action.
5. Modifications to Your Stool
Stool changes may also be an indication of pancreatic problems. Enzymes that aid in digestion are released by the pancreas, among other things. A malfunctioning pancreas can cause malabsorption of nutrients, which can alter the colour and consistency of stool. Stools may turn pale or clay-colored as a result of bile duct obstruction brought on by pancreatic cancer. You may also notice that your faeces gets more buoyant or smells strongly of something odd. These alterations may mean that your body isn’t doing its job of breaking down fats, which is one of the main jobs of pancreatic enzymes.
An essential organ, the pancreas is involved in both blood sugar management and digestion. Early detection and treatment of pancreatic issues depend on the ability to recognise their symptoms. It’s critical to get medical help right away if you encounter any of the following symptoms: fever, changes in your stool, nausea and vomiting, back pain, abdominal discomfort, or nausea. Pancreatic diseases, such as pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer, might greatly benefit from early diagnosis and treatment.