Experts Warn of Red Flag Leg Symptom Linked to Deadly Cancer

• 2025-03-27
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Experts Warn of Red Flag Leg Symptom Linked to Deadly Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and lethal forms of cancer, making early detection a significant challenge. Despite its difficulty to diagnose in the early stages, experts suggest there are certain signs to watch for that could indicate a problem.

Pancreatic Cancer: The 10th Most Common Cancer

Pancreatic cancer affects the pancreas, a vital organ that plays a key role in digestion and is located deep in the abdomen, near the stomach and small intestine. While pancreatic cancer accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers in the United States, it is responsible for around 8% of all cancer-related deaths.

At its onset, pancreatic cancer may not present clear symptoms or may cause only vague discomfort, which is why it is often diagnosed at more advanced stages when the cancer has already spread.

Gender and Prevalence

According to the Cleveland Clinic, pancreatic cancer is more common in women than men. It ranks as the 10th most common cancer among men, but jumps to the 8th spot for women in the U.S.

Although early detection is difficult, there are certain symptoms to look out for. Many patients report persistent stomach or back pain, unexplained weight loss, and digestive issues like a loss of appetite. One of the more obvious signs is jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, caused by a blocked bile duct. If these symptoms arise, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Uncommon Symptoms

Pancreatic cancer can also manifest in unexpected ways. Actor Patrick Swayze, who tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer, recalled experiencing severe indigestion that felt like "pouring acid over an open wound." He also noticed rapid weight loss, shedding 20 pounds in a short time. These types of symptoms can often signal an underlying issue.

Beyond the typical symptoms of jaundice and weight loss, there are lesser-known signs that could be red flags. The American Cancer Society identifies indigestion, nausea, diabetes, itching, fever, and even shivering as potential warning signs. However, one of the most alarming and lesser-known symptoms of pancreatic cancer is the development of blood clots.

The Connection Between Blood Clots and Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the cancers most likely to lead to blood clotting, with up to 36% of patients experiencing clot-related complications. According to experts, one of the first signs of pancreatic cancer could be a blood clot in a large vein, typically in the leg. This is known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected leg. In some cases, the clot may break off and travel to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can cause chest pain or difficulty breathing.

What to Watch For

If you notice symptoms such as pain, redness, or swelling in your leg, or if you experience breathlessness, chest pain, or upper back pain, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Blood clots can be life-threatening and may indicate a serious underlying condition, such as pancreatic cancer. Cancer Research UK advises that if you cough up blood or experience worsening symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider without delay.

By staying alert to these potential signs and seeking timely medical advice, you can take proactive steps toward protecting your health. If anything feels off, don't hesitate to get checked.