Your pancreas plays a vital role in the digestion process, so unlike some other problems in your endocrine system, it can be a little easier to determine that there’s an issue with your pancreas. That being said, of lot of the signs that suggest there is an issue with your pancreas mimic symptoms of other less serious conditions, like gastrointestinal distress or constipation. Today, we’re going share five signs that suggest there may be an issue with your pancreas.
Consistent Change in Stool Color
We’ve all eaten foods that don’t agree with our digestive systems, and sometimes the composition of these foods can alter the color or our stool. If it happens once, it’s probably not a big deal, but if you’re consistently dealing with light colored or floating stool on a regular basis, it’s a sign that that you aren’t getting enough nutrient absorption. Your pancreas produces enzymes that help your body absorb fat soluble vitamins, and if it’s not working correctly, you aren’t absorbing enough Vitamin A, E or K.
Nausea or Vomiting
As we noted above, your pancreas produces hormones that help break down fats. If your pancreas is damaged, it can mess with your body’s ability to properly break down fats, which can lead to nausea or vomiting. If you’re not pregnant or dealing with the flu, but you’re feeling nauseated throughout the day, you should consult with a pancreas specialist.
Pain in your Abdomen
Pain in your abdominal region can be from a number of things, be it gastrointestinal distress, a hernia or a pulled muscle, but it’s also the most common sign of acute pancreatitis. If you’re dealing with the sudden onset of intense abdominal pain, there’s a decent chance your pancreas is to blame.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Most people celebrate weight loss, but generally people can account for this weight loss, be it through a change in diet, an increase in exercise, or simply counting calories. However, if the pounds are dropping off and you haven’t made any lifestyle changes, it may be a sign of a serious health problem. Pancreatic cancer is often associated with sudden and unexplained weight loss, and you should always consult a doctor immediately if you’re dealing with this symptom.
Onset of Type 2 Diabetes
Your pancreas is also responsible for producing hormones that control your body’s insulin production as well as regulate blood sugar levels. If your doctor informs you that you’re diabetic, or your glucose levels high or low, one of the next areas of your body that they’ll take a look at is your pancreas.
If you’re dealing with any of these symptoms, remember that you have options. Dr. Koeplin can walk you through all your options and get you back on the path to health and wellness. Contact his office today.
