Pancreatic cancer is called the 'silent killer', doctor explains 7 unusual symptoms

Pancreatic cancer, also known as the 'silent killer' is one of those diseases that shows no symptoms when it first attacks the body's immune system (during its early stages).

The disease can affect your pancreas, a gland in your abdomen that helps with digestion. Your pancreas releases enzymes that aid digestion and produces hormones that help manage blood sugar. Therefore when the organ is in trouble, the first sign may be indigestion. However, there is a reason why experts call it a "silent killer".

In the video, Dr Deeksha Kapoor, Consultant, GI Surgery, GI Oncology and Bariatric Surgery, Institute of Digestive and Hepatobiliary Sciences, Medanta, Gurugram, has explained how to identify the symptoms of this silent killer and what to do to save your pancreas safe from such diseases and conditions.

In a nutshell, here's what your doctor wants you to know about the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer:

Nothing appears in the early stages. However, when people see or experience symptoms, they are often similar to symptoms of other medical conditions, such as ulcers or pancreatitis. As the cancer grows, these are some signs the patient may experience:

- Bloating

- Weakness

-Loss of appetite

-Nausea or vomiting

-A burning sensation inside the stomach

-Painful swelling in the stomach or legs (mainly occurs due to blood clots).

- Change in skin color (gums and lips may turn yellow)

Note: It is important to get checked out by a doctor when you experience any unexplained symptoms that concern you. Many other conditions can cause these symptoms, so consulting a doctor is the right thing to do.