Signs and symptoms of stomach cancer
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Signs and Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Common Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Indigestion and Heartburn
Indigestion or heartburn, also known as dyspepsia, is a frequent symptom of stomach cancer. Patients often report persistent discomfort or burning sensation in the upper abdomen, which may be mistaken for common gastrointestinal issues.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is another common symptom, often accompanied by vomiting. These symptoms can be persistent and may not be relieved by typical over-the-counter medications .
Feeling Full or Bloated
Patients with stomach cancer often feel full or bloated even after consuming small amounts of food. This sensation can lead to a significant decrease in appetite and subsequent weight loss.
Abdominal Pain
Pain in the stomach or abdomen is a prevalent symptom. This pain can vary in intensity and may be persistent or intermittent. It is often mistaken for benign conditions like ulcers .
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is a critical symptom of stomach cancer. Patients may lose a significant amount of weight without any changes in diet or physical activity .
Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, can occur if the cancer is located near the junction of the stomach and esophagus. This symptom can progressively worsen, making it difficult for patients to consume solid foods.
Anemia
Anemia, often resulting from chronic blood loss, is another symptom. Patients may present with fatigue, weakness, and pallor due to the reduced number of red blood cells .
Unusual Presentations of Stomach Cancer
Lumboischialgia
In rare cases, stomach cancer can present with symptoms unrelated to the gastrointestinal tract. For instance, severe low back pain and lumboischialgia (pain radiating from the lower back to the legs) can be the first and only symptom, as seen in a case of disseminated adenocarcinoma of the stomach.
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
Patients may also present with gastrointestinal hemorrhage, leading to black stools (melena) and significant bodily weakness. This can be associated with conditions like pernicious anemia, which is a known risk factor for stomach cancer.
Metastatic Symptoms
Stomach cancer can metastasize to other organs, leading to non-specific symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dysphagia, epigastric pain, and melena. These symptoms can complicate the diagnosis, as they may mimic other conditions.
Portal Vein Thrombosis
An unusual presentation includes symptoms suggestive of portal vein thrombosis (PVT), which can be a primary indication of stomach cancer. This rare presentation highlights the diverse ways in which stomach cancer can manifest.
Conclusion
Stomach cancer presents with a variety of symptoms, ranging from common gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, nausea, and abdominal pain to more unusual presentations such as lumboischialgia and portal vein thrombosis. Early detection is crucial, as symptoms often appear only after the disease has progressed. If any of these symptoms are experienced, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.
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