Stomach cancer, sometimes known as the “silent killer,” is a type of cancer that is often difficult to detect in its early stages, making it more dangerous. Symptoms usually develop gradually and inconspicuously, leading to delayed diagnosis. In this article, we will review the signs and symptoms of stomach cancer that may help in early recognition of this disease, and how to prevent it.
Signs and symptoms of stomach cancer
- Persistent stomach pain
One of the main symptoms of stomach cancer is pain or discomfort in the stomach area. The patient may feel constant pain or sharp pain that appears from time to time. This pain may worsen after eating or even when feeling hungry. It can also be vague or non-specific pain, making it easy to overlook in the early stages. - Nausea and vomiting
People with stomach cancer may experience persistent nausea or vomiting, which can be accompanied by blood. In some advanced cases, the patient may develop a partial obstruction in the stomach, making vomiting more common and making it difficult to digest normally. - Unexplained weight loss
A worrying sign of stomach cancer is sudden and unexplained weight loss. Even with normal eating, the patient may find themselves losing weight quickly and without a clear explanation. This could be due to a lack of appetite or because the cancer affects the stomach’s ability to absorb nutrients. - Extreme fatigue and loss of energy
Feeling extremely tired and exhausted can be a sign of cancer progression. The body may have difficulty fighting the disease due to the cancer’s effect on the health of vital organs. This fatigue is not related to physical activity, but rather appears even with rest. - Change in bowel habits
Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, can be symptoms associated with stomach cancer. Some may experience difficulty digesting or feeling full more quickly when eating. - Anemia
Since stomach cancer can cause invisible bleeding in the stomach, this can lead to anemia. Symptoms associated with this include pale skin, general weakness, and shortness of breath, even during normal daily activities. - Bloating and feeling full
Feeling bloated after eating or feeling full quickly could be another sign of stomach cancer. This is due to the reduced capacity of the stomach to absorb food due to cancerous growth that hinders the normal digestive process. - Changes in stool color
One symptom to watch for is a change in stool color. Stool that turns black or contains blood could be a sign of internal bleeding in the stomach or intestines. This could indicate that the cancer has progressed to a more advanced stage. - Family history and exposure to certain risk factors
One of the main risk factors for stomach cancer is family history, as people who have close relatives who have had this type of cancer are more likely to develop it. People who have Helicobacter pylori infection, a bacteria associated with gastritis, may also be more susceptible to this disease. Other factors include a diet high in smoked or salty foods, and smoking cigarettes.
Causes of stomach cancer and risk factors
There are many factors that may increase the risk of stomach cancer, including:
Family history: Having relatives with stomach cancer can increase the likelihood of infection.
Unhealthy eating habits: Eating foods rich in salt or smoked foods may increase the risk of infection.
Genetic factors: Some genetic syndromes such as “Lynch syndrome” may increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Stomach cancer is a silent disease that may develop slowly without any obvious symptoms at first. By knowing the warning signs and early diagnosis, the chances of treatment and survival can be improved. If you feel any of the symptoms mentioned, it is important to consult a doctor to get the appropriate diagnosis.
