What are the symptoms of stomach cancer?
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, often presents with a variety of symptoms that can be easily mistaken for less serious conditions. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Common Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Indigestion and Heartburn
One of the most frequently reported symptoms of stomach cancer is persistent indigestion or heartburn, medically referred to as dyspepsia. This symptom can often be overlooked as it is common in many benign conditions .
Nausea and Vomiting
Patients with stomach cancer may experience nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can be persistent and are often accompanied by other gastrointestinal issues .
Feeling Full Quickly
A common symptom is feeling full after eating only a small amount of food. This early satiety can lead to significant weight loss over time .
Abdominal Pain
Pain in the stomach or abdomen is another prevalent symptom. This pain can vary in intensity and is often persistent, prompting individuals to seek medical attention .
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unintentional and unexplained weight loss is a significant red flag for stomach cancer. This symptom is often due to a combination of factors, including reduced appetite and early satiety .
Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, can occur if the cancer is located near the gastroesophageal junction. This symptom can significantly impact a patient's ability to eat and maintain nutrition .
Anemia
Anemia, often resulting from chronic bleeding within the stomach, is another symptom. Patients may present with fatigue, weakness, and pallor due to the reduced red blood cell count .
Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Symptoms such as melena (black stools) or hematemesis (vomiting blood) indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be a sign of advanced stomach cancer. These symptoms necessitate immediate medical evaluation .
Less Common Symptoms
Bloating and Distension
Some patients report feeling bloated or experiencing abdominal distension, which can be mistaken for other gastrointestinal disorders .
Persistent Vomiting
In more advanced cases, persistent vomiting can occur, which may be due to obstruction caused by the tumor .
Fatigue
General fatigue and bodily weakness are common, often related to anemia and the overall impact of the cancer on the body .
Conclusion
Stomach cancer presents with a range of symptoms that can often be mistaken for less serious conditions. Persistent gastrointestinal issues such as indigestion, nausea, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss should prompt further medical evaluation. Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes, making awareness of these symptoms vital for both patients and healthcare providers.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic