9. Liquid retention
As it happens with many other types of cancer, pancreatic cancer sometimes causes liquid retention when it grows to block the venous or lymphatic return of a given area of the body. It is more common in the late stage of the disease, especially when cancer has spread to the liver. Metastasis to this organ would ultimately lead to a dysfunction of the liver, a reduction in the concentration of proteins in the blood, and liquid retention as more liquid starts leaking out of the blood vessels.
Additionally, pancreatic cancer patients usually have blood clotting problems and may experience deep vein thrombosis when blood clots travel to smaller arteries and block the normal blood flow. This is another cause of swelling and fluid retention in the lower extremities and other parts of the body. Deep vein thrombosis can be a life-threatening health problem, and if you see swelling and changes of color in your skin, it is a good idea to ask your doctor right away.
