Pancreatic Tumors: Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
The pancreas is an essential organ tucked behind the stomach that plays an important role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Unfortunately, pancreatic tumors—both benign and malignant—often stay undetected until they reach an advanced stage. One of the main reasons is that the early symptoms are subtle and easily mistaken for common digestive problems.
At Kaizen Gastro Care Clinic in Pune, Dr. Samrat Jankar, a leading gastrointestinal surgeon, and Dr. Vikrant Kale, a renowned gastroenterologist, have treated numerous cases of pancreatic tumors. They emphasize the importance of recognizing early warning symptoms to enable timely diagnosis and treatment.
What Are Pancreatic Tumors?
Pancreatic tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Pancreatic cancer, specifically pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, is the most aggressive form. These tumors may grow silently and spread fast to nearby organs.
Warning Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For:
Here are the most important symptoms that may signify a pancreatic tumor:
- Unexplained Weight Loss: A sudden drop in weight without any effort could signal a metabolic change due to a growing tumor.
- Persistent Abdominal or Back Pain: Pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back is a classic symptom. It often worsens after eating or when lying down.
- Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes): This occurs when a tumor blocks the bile duct. It’s usually one of the first noticeable signs.
- Digestive Problems: Bloating, indigestion, and a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts could indicate a tumor compressing surrounding organs or affecting enzyme production. Greasy or fatty stools are another red flag, often a result of poor pancreatic enzymes.
- New-Onset Diabetes: If you’re over 50 and have recently developed diabetes without a known cause, it could be linked to pancreatic changes.
- Dark Urine and Pale Stools: Blockage of the bile duct can lead to changes in the color of urine and stool.
- Fatigue and Weakness: The body’s incapacity to absorb nutrients due to pancreatic dysfunction can lead to chronic fatigue.
- Nausea and Vomiting: A pancreatic tumor can press against the stomach, causing nausea, vomiting, and even gastric outlet obstruction. While these signs are common in many gastrointestinal problems, they become suspicious when they persist without clear cause.
Risk Factors for Pancreatic Tumors:
According to Dr. Vikrant Kale, while anyone can develop pancreatic tumors, certain factors improve the risk:
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Obesity and poor diet
- Family history of pancreatic cancer
- Type 2 diabetes
- Age over 60 years
When to See a Specialist?
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms—especially more than one—it’s crucial to consult a pancreas specialist in Pune. Early diagnosis is key, and with advanced diagnostic tools available at Kaizen Gastro Care, timely intervention is possible.
Dr. Samrat Jankar, an expert gastrointestinal and laparoscopic surgeon in Pune, emphasizes that pancreatic tumors should not be taken lightly. Many patients delay seeking help, attributing symptoms to gas or acidity, thereby losing valuable time.
Diagnostic Approach at Kaizen Gastro Care:
At Kaizen Gastro Care, the diagnostic journey involves:
- Detailed clinical evaluation
- Blood tests (including tumor markers like CA 19-9)
- Abdominal ultrasound and CT scan
- MRI and MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
- Biopsy, if needed
This multidisciplinary and technologically advanced approach allows for a precise and early diagnosis, improving the chances of effective treatment.
Treatment Options:
The treatment of pancreatic tumors depends on the type, size, and stage of the tumor. Treatment may include:
- Surgical resection (such as Whipple procedure)
- Chemotherapy and radiation therapy
- Palliative methods to relieve symptoms in advanced cases
- Targeted therapies for specific tumor types like NETs
- At Kaizen Gastro Care, treatment plans are personalized for each patient by a collaborative team led by Dr. Kale and Dr. Jankar.
Conclusion:
Pancreatic tumors can be life-threatening if ignored. Identifying the symptoms early and seeking expert care can make a significant difference. If you or your loved ones experience persistent digestive issues, unexplained weight loss, or signs of jaundice, don’t delay—schedule a consultation at Kaizen Gastro Care Clinic, Pune.
Your health is your greatest asset—don’t overlook the signs your body is giving you.
To book an appointment with Dr. Samrat Jankar or Dr. Vikrant Kale, call Kaizen Gastro Care Clinic today.