Stomach Cancer: Common Early Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Stomach cancer starts when cancer cells begin to grow beyond control in the stomach. It is also known as gastric cancer that can form anywhere in the stomach. Stomach cancer begins in the stomach lining approximately 95% of the time and then expands gradually. If it goes undetected or untreated, it can built into a mass or tumour and grow deeper into the stomach walls. The tumour can also spread to surrounding organs such as liver and pancreas.

The stomach is one of the most vital organs of the digestive system that helps in breaking down food and absorbing essential nutrients. The innermost layer of the stomach, known as mucosa, is where stomach cancer begins. There are various types of stomach cancers and adenocarcinoma is one of the most type of cancer. It starts in the glandular cells of the stomach lining. The less common types of stomach cancers are gastrointestinal stromal tumours, carcinoid tumours, and lymphomas.

According to Professor Dr Erman Aytac, Memorial Bahcelievler Hospital – General Surgery, “stomach cancer is a disease with increasing prevalence in our society, a social issue. Unfortunately, due to its insidious symptoms, it is often diagnosed at a later stage. We make a definitive diagnosis through an endoscopy procedure. Symptoms like weakness, fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and weight loss can be early signs of stomach cancer.”

More advanced signs manifest as problems like obstruction and abdominal bloating. If stomach cancer is caught early, it is one of the cancers where a full cure is possible. In this sense it is necessary to pay attention to these insidious signs and consult a doctor if they occur, added Dr Erman.    

Common Symptoms & Signs Of Stomach Cancer

According to a report featured in NHS, there are various symptoms of stomach cancer and they may be difficult to observe. These symptoms can potentially impact the digestion that may include:  

• Acid reflux or heartburn

• Facing trouble with swallowing

• Feeling unwell

• Excessive burping or symptoms of indigestion

• Feeling full instantly when eating food

• Loss of appetite or shedding weight without efforts

• Lump at the top of tummy

• Pain at the top of tummy

• Fatigue or loss of energy

If you face other condition like gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, you can get aforementioned symptoms consistently. It is significant to get checked by a general practitioner (GP) if symptoms alter or get aggravated.  

Early Stage Symptoms

In early stage, the symptoms may not be noticeable and this is the reason why it is diagnosed in later stages. When symptoms surface, they can be confused with other conditions. Below are some early stage symptoms of stomach cancer:

Mild Abdominal Pain: If you feel mild and intermittent stomach pain, it can be an indication of stage 1 stomach cancer. However, it can be overlooked because it is similar with common gastrointestinal issues. The pain is associated with discomfort that comes and goes instead of remaining consistently and severe. You may feel the pain in the upper abdomen and just below your ribs.

Small Changes in Appetite: Minor changes in appetite or weight can be a warning sign. You may feel full instantly after eating small meals or notice gradual decline in appetite over a period of time. Weight loss is can be associated even if eating habits did not change much.

Indigestion: You may get symptoms of indigestion or heartburn as possible indication of stomach cancer. They can be a part of early gastric cancer symptoms but they can be common with less serious concerns such as acid reflux. It is significant to remain vigilant of changes in frequency and severity. If you notice hearburn with indigestion quite often or it turns intense and accompanies with nausea, vomiting, and difficult swallowing, it is better to get checked with your GP, according to Max Healthcare.  

Nausea:  If your nausea or vomiting become more frequent or severe and accompanied with stomach pain or blood, it is significant to get yourself checked. Vomiting black or dark color items require immediate medical intervention. If vomiting is linked to eating, it can also be a symptom of indigestion or stomach cancer.

Advanced Stage Cancer Symptoms

These symptoms are more noticeable and worrying. These symptoms can impact your daily life and overall wellbeing. Below are some of stage 3 and stage 4 cancer symptoms:

• Consistent & severe stomach pain

• Sharp weight loss and appetite

• Difficulty swallowing

• Vomiting blood or passing bloody stools

• Extreme tiredness

• Blood Loss

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.