10 Common Symptoms of Stomach Cancer You Must Know

Common symptoms of stomach cancer include: ongoing indigestion or heartburn, feeling full after eating small quantities of food (early satiety), unexplained weight loss, ongoing stomach pain or upper abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting (sometimes with blood), difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), black or bloody stools, fatigue and weakness caused by anaemia, loss of appetite, and bloating after meals.

In its early stages, stomach cancer can grow silently, and many people are detected only when it has advanced to stage 3 or stage 4. This makes it vitally crucial to recognise early warning symptoms for faster diagnosis, better treatment options, and improved survival results. H. pylori infection, smoking, heavy drinking, GERD, chronic gastritis, obesity, family history of stomach cancer, and diets high in salty, smoked, or processed foods are common risk factors.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the common symptoms of this cancer, why early detection matters, and when you should visit a doctor!

Common symptoms of Stomach cancer

Stomach cancer won’t show any specific symptoms in the early stages. One of the most common signs of gastric cancer may include sudden weight loss and stomach pain. It doesn't usually show up until the cancer reaches the advanced stages.

Here are some of the common symptoms of this cancer. 

Indigestion and heartburn

Experiencing indigestion that doesn’t go away or worsens over time is considered one of the early signs of stomach cancer. If you are starting to take more antacids or experiencing a sense of burning after eating meals, then do not ignore these signs!

Feeling full after eating small amounts of food

If you are feeling full after eating small portions of food, then it could be a sign of cancer. An unusual early satiety could generally indicate that the tumor is pressing against the stomach walls. It usually interferes with normal digestive functions. 

Sudden weight loss

If you are experiencing sudden or unintentional weight loss, then it could be a sign of cancer. Do not ignore these signs when you experience them. If you are losing weight without changing your diet or any physical activity, then consult a doctor immediately. 

Loss of appetite

If you are experiencing a noticeable drop in appetite, especially when combined with fatigue or weight loss, it may point to changes in the stomach’s ability to process foods due to growing stomach tumors inside the abdomen.

Abdominal pain and Discomfort

If you are experiencing constant abdominal pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen, then do not ignore it. Some might experience cramps, bloating, or a dull ache that worsens over time; then it could be a sign of cancer.

Nausea and vomiting

Experiencing constant nausea or vomiting, especially when it comes with blood or appears as coffee grounds, may indicate an internal bleeding or obstruction in the stomach.

Bloating

If you are experiencing constant bloating right after eating any type of meal, then it could be due to inflammation or any type of obstruction caused by the stomach.

Fatigue and weakness

If you are constantly feeling tired even after taking proper rest, then it could be a red flag. A constant tiredness can result from an internal bleeding caused by the stomach, leading to anemia and reduced oxygen supply in the body.

Blood in the stool

If you are experiencing black or dark colored stool(poop), it could be a sign of cancer. The bleeding in the stomach often causes the stools to appear dark brown or black color. If you see any such signs, then consult a doctor immediately.

Trouble swallowing (Dysphagia)

If you are experiencing trouble swallowing, then it could be a sign of cancer. In most cases, trouble swallowing would happen when the tumor grew near the stomach’s opening.

Studies confirm that the most common cancers are found in the upper abdomen or gastrointestinal junction, which causes trouble swallowing.

What causes stomach cancer?

Gastric cancer often develops when there is a genetic mutation in the DNA of the stomach cells. DNA holds the instructions for when the cells need to grow and when to die. Because of cell mutation, most cancer cells grow rapidly and eventually form a tumor instead of dying. There are factors that cause the risk of stomach cancer in people.

These may include:

• Family history of cancer
• H.pylori infection
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Gastritis
• Epstein-Barr virus infection
• An history of stomach ulcers or stomach polyps
• Smoking, vaping or chewing tobacco
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity 
• Autoimmune atrophic gastritis
• Poor diet
• Diet high with fatty, salty, and smoked or pickled foods

Why early detection matters in gastric cancer?

Understanding this type of cancer is crucial to fighting against these diseases. Early detection often increases the overall success rate of treatment and improves the quality of lives. Many studies suggest that when stomach cancer reaches its advanced stage, then most of the treatment options often become limited.

It shows the significance of early diagnosis and how important it is to identify the symptoms and an effective treatment on time.

When to consult a doctor

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, combined with other health concerns, for more than two weeks, then consult a healthcare provider. Do not wait until the symptoms become severe.

Early detection of this cancer can significantly improve the treatment outcomes and it improves the overall quality of life.

Learn more about Stomach Cancer from the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute.

Consult Today

Stomach cancer symptoms usually mimic the signs of digestive issues, which is why they get dismissed and ignored by people. Understanding these symptoms of cancer helps to identify them easily. It often helps you to listen to the body and catch the disease before it can go to its advanced stage.

At Oncare, we offer premium- quality cancer treatments, including advanced cancer surgeries at affordable price ranges with an experienced cancer specialist consultation.

If you or any loved ones of yours are diagnosed with cancer, then consult Oncare Cancer Hospital and book an appointment with our cancer specialist today! Get an estimated cost of your cancer treatments today!