Signs and indications of stomach cancer range from blood in the stool to stomach pain. Generally, in any case, stomach cancer does not have manifestations in the beginning periods, or the side effects can be unclear, inconspicuous, and nonspecific, for example, nausea or weight loss. Sadly, there is not a single symptom or warning sign that pinpoints a finding of stomach cancer, so further assessment and testing is required for a diagnosis.
Side effects fluctuate among various individuals and furthermore rely upon the stage of the cancer, as well as the specific type of stomach cancer. By any chance that you are encountering any of the side effects of stomach cancer, read below, please see your doctor. With most diseases, a timely diagnosis leads to a better treatment result.
Signs and Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Cancer frequently shows up its presence both with signs—obvious changes, for example, blood in the stool, and symptoms —how you feel inside however which others can't see, for example, fatigue. As we list the indications beneath, you will take note of that they are altogether nonspecific and could be identified with a wide range of medical conditions. The more side effects you have, the almost certain there is an issue, but even if you have just a single symptom it's critical to know the reason. Common symptoms of stomach cancer incorporate the following:
Blood in the Stool
Blood in the stool can be a symptom of stomach cancer; however, has numerous possible causes. The shade of blood in the stool regularly gives a significant piece of information with regards to the beginning of bleeding.
Bright red blood (hematochezia), for example, you may note when cleaning with tissue, might be alarming, however isn't a reason to panic. This sort of bleeding is frequently identified with less serious conditions (however still unpleasant), for example, hemorrhoids and anal fissures. It can however be due to cancers lower in the digestive tract, for example, rectal cancer and colon cancer in the descending , that is the last part of the colon.
Blood that originates from higher in the digestive tract is generally not red and rather may seem dark and tarry (melena). Bleeding from the stomach is frequently portrayed as having an "coffee ground" appearance. However, there are numerous potential explanations for this too, including bleeding anywhere from the esophagus to the upper portion of the colon.
Blood in the stool isn't constantly noticeable to the eye. Your stool can contain trace amounts of blood that that only a test can reveal, such as a fecal occult blood, can reveal. In fact, the first clue that you that you might be bleeding internally may be the presence of anemia (iron deficiency anemia from blood loss) on a complete blood count (CBC).
Stomach Pain and Discomfort
Stomach pain is a the most common symptoms of stomach cancers, which prompts individuals to look for medicinal attention. Stomach pain can go from steady gentle uneasiness to serious pain. Pain and distress by and large happen in the upper abdominal area. All things considered, because of the manner in which the nerves detect pain in the upper abdominal area, the location of the pain doesn't really reflect where the source of the pain is located.
Stomach torment, as different symptoms mentioned here, has numerous potential causes, and a significant number of these conditions are more typical than stomach disease. These can shift from generally "nuisance" conditions, for example, lactose intolerance, to serious conditions. Different kinds of cancers that can cause stomach pain include pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, bile duct, and gallbladder cancer.
Persistent stomach pain, regardless of where it occurs, should be assessed by your doctor.
Persistent Nausea and/or Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are likewise common side effects, with numerous causes which are more typical than stomach cancer. If you have nausea and vomiting persistent however there is a greater chance that it is signaling a more serious issue. On the off chance that your side effects are enduring, or on the off chance that you vomit up blood (even if it is a small quantity), make an arrangement to see your doctor immediately. In the event that you are vomiting a lot of blood (in excess of a few teaspoons) don't hold on to make an appointment and call the emergency. Gastric hemorrhage or bleeding is a medical emergency.
Loss of Appetite or Feeling Full Quickly
It's normal to lose your hunger for a day or two, however in the event that you find that you simply don't have a craving for eating in excess of a few days, see your doctor. There are numerous conditions which can loss of appetite, just one of which is stomach cancer. In any case, a reduction in appetite is generally a serious sign that something is wrong.
Closely associated to lack of appetite is a sensation of fullness which occurs even after eating just a light meal. If you find that you are hungry (have a normal appetite), but feel full quickly, talk to your doctor.
Stomach Bloating
Stomach bloating can be a side effect of stomach cancer, particularly when it happens after meals. You are most likely acquainted with the bloating that accompanies eating a high fiber meal or eating excessively. In the event that you are feeling bloated and don't have an explanation, however, talk to your doctor.
In addition to the stomach cancer and other conditions, stomach bloating is regularly the principal symptoms of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer has called as the “silent killer” because of the absence of side effects early on in the disease.
Heartburn and/or Indigestion
Heartburn is commonly identified with esophageal irritation from acid reflux, but can also be a side effect of stomach cancer. Acid reflux is a significant indication to note also, particularly in the event that it keeps going over more than a day or two.
Changes in Bowel Habits
Changes in bowel habits , including diarrhea and constipation are often identified with less serious conditions. Be that as it may, these changes are also one of the warning signs of stomach cancer. Everyone has different bowel habits, and what is typical for one individual may not be for another. The most significant finding is if your bowel habits change for you as an individual. In the event that you see a change, consult your doctor.
Feeling Excessively Tired
Weakness that endures beyond a couple of days can indicate a medical issue. With stomach disease, weakness is frequently identified with fatigue because of blood loss in the stool or from vomiting. It appears we are altogether drained nowadays, however cancer –related fatigue is often unique. It is the sort of weakness that doesn't improve with a good night's rest or a good cup of coffee. This sort of weakness regularly grows progressively, so it may help to think back 6 to 12 months and compare your energy level now to back then. If it is very clear that you are more tired, make an appointment, even if you do not have other symptoms.
Losing Weight Without Trying
The vast majority of us would invite weight reduction without dieting, yet unintentional weight reduction is a health concern that should be brought to your doctor’s consideration. On the off chance that you have lost around 5 percent of your typical body weight (for instance, a weight reduction of 7.5 pounds for a 150-pound individual) over the span of a 6 months or less, and haven't been dieting or working out, call your doctor. Inadvertent weight loss can be the consequence of numerous serious conditions, including stomach cancer.
A Gut Feeling That Something is Wrong
It's normal for individuals who are diagnosed to have cancer to concede that they know something was amiss. You may essentially not feel well or have a gut sense that something is wrong. Trust your instinct. The most noticeably terrible thing that can happen is that you lose the time and money associated with making an appointment with your doctor. In contrast, the worst that can happen from not listening to your body's voice could be tragic.
A Word From Verywell
The signs and symptoms of stomach cancer have numerous possible causes. The significant point to note, in any case, is that regardless of whether your symptoms aren't because of cancer in your stomach, there are numerous different serious conditions which could be available in the event that you experience stomach pain, bowel, or sudden weight loss.
It's important to make an arrangement to see your doctor on the off chance that you note any symptoms that don't have an explanation. Indications are our body's method of alerting us to issues that should be attended to. On the off chance that you see your doctor and don't have an explanation for what you are dealing with follow up and ask the doctor once again.
Stomach cancer, as well as many of the other possible reasons for these symptoms, can sometimes be challenging to diagnose. In the event that despite everything, you don't have answers, think about a second opinion. While your doctor may spend 15 or 30 minutes with you, you live in your body day in and day out. As noted above, trust your gut and look around you. Most cancers are easiest to treat in the event that they are found in the early stages of the disease. Numerous individuals who are diagnosed in the beginning stages have had to be their own advocate, a "squeaky wheel" so to speak, in order to get the care they later knew was so significant.