NHS lists cancer signs mistaken for 'common' symptoms - full list

The NHS has shared symptoms that people may brush off as "common" which could actually be masking something more serious. In the post on X, the health service noted that if something does not feel right, it should be treated sooner rather than later.

It warned: "Symptoms of pancreatic cancer are common and can be caused by lots of things. It’s important to be checked by a GP if things don’t feel normal for you. If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it earlier may make it easier to treat."

The experts explained that pancreatic cancer is a cancer that is found anywhere in the pancreas. This is an organ located in the upper part of your abdomen that helps you digest food and produces hormones, such as insulin.

It further explained: "How serious pancreatic cancer is depends on where it is in the pancreas, how big it is, if it has spread and your general health."

What are the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer?

Sadly, this type of cancer may not have any symptoms and it might be hard to spot. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can include:

• the whites of your eyes or your skin turn yellow (jaundice), and you may also have itchy skin, darker pee and paler poo than usual
• loss of appetite or losing weight without trying to
• feeling tired or having no energy
• a high temperature, or feeling hot or shivery

Other symptoms can affect your digestion, such as:

• feeling or being sick
• diarrhoea or constipation, or other changes in your poo
• pain at the top part of your tummy and your back, which may feel worse when you're eating or lying down and better when you lean forward
• symptoms of indigestion, such as feeling bloated

Symptom warning

Some of these symptoms are very common such as bloating and feeling tired. It can be caused by other conditions too, so it's always important to get it checked out so you can start an investigation early.

The NHS stressed: "Having the symptoms does not definitely mean you have pancreatic cancer, but it's important to get checked by a GP. If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it's easier to treat."

I have booked a GP appointment, what next?

During your appointment, the GP may examine your abdomen. They may ask you to give a pee sample or have a blood test. If more tests are needed, you may get an urgent referral or you'll get a referral to see a specialist in hospital if the GP thinks you have symptoms that could be cancer. This does not definitely mean you have cancer, so whilst it's easier said than done not to panic, don't assume this is a definite yes.

Ask your GP this

According to Cancer Research UK, these are just some of the questions you may want to ask your GP. You can write them down so you don't forget.

• Do I need to see a specialist? Is it urgent?

Your GP may not be able to answer all of your questions right now, but they will share as much information as they can. It’s completely normal to find waiting for answers difficult, so talking to a friend or family member about how you’re feeling might make things a little easier.

If your GP says you do not need any tests or a referral, you can ask the following:

• Can you explain why I don’t need to have tests or see a specialist?