14 Signs Of Stomach Cancer You Need To Know!

Stomach cancer is cancer that develops in the stomach's tissues or cells. Early signs of stomach cancer are difficult to detect as it frequently does not produce symptoms in its early stages. As a result, it is critical to understand the symptoms that may be associated with stomach cancer. The following are some warning signs of stomach cancer that should be taken seriously.

1.  Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Difficulty swallowing food is a serious early sign of stomach cancer. Patients may experience difficulty eating foods that are harder or larger than usual. This could be due to a tumour narrowing the digestive tract.

2.  Unexplained Weight Loss

Unusual weight loss can also be an indication of stomach cancer. If a person loses a lot of weight without dieting or exercising, it could be due to stomach cancer. This is due to the fact that stomach cancer can disrupt a person's digestive system, causing unwanted weight loss.

3.  Stomach Pain

Individuals may experience stomach pain, especially after eating or drinking.  Pain associated with stomach cancer has the characteristics of being persistent and lasting a long time. Stomach cancer cells attacking the stomach wall or internal organs in the stomach area can cause stomach pain.

4.  Constipation or Diarrhea

Changes in bowel movements can also be an indication of stomach cancer. Constipation or diarrhea that lasts several days or longer could indicate stomach cancer. Consult your doctor right away if your bowel movements have changed for several days.

5.  Heartburn and Indigestion 

Heartburn or persistent indigestion refers to discomfort and pain in the upper abdomen, particularly below the rib cage. One of these signs is stomach cancer. Stomach cancer typically begins in the stomach lining and can spread to other digestive organs. This can result in heartburn or indigestion, particularly after eating.

6.  Loss of Appetite

Stomach cancer can also cause loss of appetite. If you experience prolonged loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss, this may be an early sign of stomach cancer that needs attention.

7.  Feeling Full Quickly

Someone who feels full quickly after eating a small amount of food may be showing early signs of stomach cancer. This is due to the fact that stomach cancer cells can alter the digestive system and cause the stomach to feel full quickly.

8.  Feeling Like Food is Stuck in the Throat

Food stuck in the throat is defined as discomfort or weakness in the throat area that causes a person to believe they have food stuck. This symptom occurs when upper stomach cancer tumours press against the oesophagus or food tube.

9.  Bloating After Eating

Stomach cancer can also cause someone to experience bloating after eating. This is due to the fact that stomach cancer can cause the release of gas in the stomach, resulting in bloating.

10.  Abdominal Swelling

Individuals with stomach cancer commonly experience abdominal swelling. The swollen area will not subside and may remain for a long period of time. Abdominal swelling is usually caused by a tumor in the stomach that collects gas or fluid.

11.  Nausea and Vomiting

When a tumor disrupts the intestines, food cannot be digested properly, causing nausea and vomiting. If these symptoms persist, it could mean that your stomach cancer has progressed to a more serious stage.

It is important to note that nausea and vomiting can also be caused by other factors such as gastric or stomach infections. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor for further examination before concluding the cause as stomach cancer.

12.  Dark and Bloody Stools

When an individual has stomach cancer, cancerous cells form in the inner lining of the stomach and multiply uncontrollably. Dark and bloody stools may be a sign of serious stomach cancer and require immediate attention.

This symptom is typically caused by the cancer damaging the internal organs and causing injury or damage to those parts.

13.  Fatigue Due to Anaemia

Anaemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells in the body is reduced. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body, and a lack of them can cause fatigue, shortness of breath as well as weakness.

Anaemia can be caused by stomach cancer as cancer cells in the stomach can damage blood vessels and interfere with the production of new red blood cells.

14.  Yellowing of Eyes and Skin

Yellowing of the eyes and skin, according to medical experts, is one of the most obvious early signs of stomach cancer. This is due to the fact that stomach cancer can alter the digestive system, nutrient absorption and waste production.

When the digestive system is not working properly, it can interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients in the body. It can also produce toxins that cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. Damage to the liver can also cause this.

Can Stress Cause Cancer?

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Stress does not directly cause stomach cancer, but chronic, uncontrolled stress can increase the risk of stomach cancer. Cancer-related stress can disrupt the digestive and immune systems of the body, leading to health problems such as chronic inflammation or gastric problems that increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Therefore, it is important to manage stress effectively and take steps to maintain overall health to reduce the risk of stomach cancer.

Diseases Similar to Stomach Cancer

Some diseases can mimic stomach cancer symptoms. This includes:

• Gastritis - Inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause pain and discomfort in the stomach.

• Dyspepsia - Digestive disorders that cause pain, bloating, nausea and vomiting.

• Gastroenteritis - Inflammation of the digestive tract that can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and fever.

• Peptic Ulcer - Ulcers in the stomach or intestinal walls that cause pain and bleeding.

While these diseases may have similar symptoms to stomach cancer, it is important to remember that only a doctor can determine the correct diagnosis and treat the disease properly.

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

Cancer is a life-threatening disease if not detected early. Early awareness of the signs of stomach cancer is essential to reduce the progression of cancer into a chronic condition. Effective treatment can be provided by identifying the signs of cancer.

For individuals experiencing these signs, it is recommended to consult with a doctor so that further examination can be carried out. Remember that these proactive steps can save your life.

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