What are the symptoms of stomach cancer?

Gastric cancer, a disease of abnormal cell proliferation that originates in the stomach, occurs in the upper middle part of the abdomen, the area of the stomach below the ribs. As an important organ of the digestive system, the stomach is mainly responsible for breaking down and digesting food. Gastric cancer can occur anywhere in the stomach, but in most parts of the world it is more common in the main part of the stomach, known as the gastric body. Understanding the symptoms of stomach cancer is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.

The signs and symptoms of stomach cancer may vary from person to person, and not all symptoms may occur at the same time. Here are some common stomach cancer symptoms:

1. Dysphagia: Patients may feel that food is blocked as it passes through the esophagus and into the stomach.

2. Abdominal pain: Usually located in the upper abdomen, it may be a dull or sharp pain, and may worsen as the condition progresses.

3. Postprandial bloating: Feeling of stomach discomfort or fullness after eating.

4. Early satiety: Feeling full even after eating a small amount of food.

5. Loss of appetite: You may lose interest in food even when you feel hungry.

6. Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen that may accompany acid reflux.

7. Indigestion: Problems in the digestion process of food may cause stomach discomfort.

8. Nausea and vomiting: Frequent nausea, which may sometimes be accompanied by vomiting.

9. Weight loss: Significant weight loss without deliberate weight loss.

10. Fatigue: Continuous feeling of tiredness that cannot be relieved even after rest.

11. Melaena: The stool becomes darker in color and may be black or tarry, indicating bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

It is worth noting that gastric cancer does not always show obvious symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms occur, they may be limited to minor discomfort such as indigestion and upper abdominal pain. Therefore, many patients with gastric cancer are already at an advanced stage when diagnosed. Symptoms of advanced gastric cancer may include persistent fatigue, rapid weight loss, vomiting blood, and black stools, among other severe symptoms.

In addition, stomach cancer may cause certain symptoms if it spreads to other parts of the body. For example, spread to lymph nodes may cause lumps under the skin; spread to the liver may cause jaundice, which appears as yellowing of the skin and eyes; spread to the abdomen may cause ascites, which makes the abdomen look swollen.

In view of the diversity and non-specificity of gastric cancer symptoms, if any of the above symptoms occur, especially if they persist or gradually worsen, you should seek professional medical examination and diagnosis promptly. Early detection and treatment are crucial to improving the survival rate and quality of life of gastric cancer patients.

(Click to view an introduction to drugs for treating gastric cancer.)

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stomach-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352438