Stomach can.cer is hard to detect early because its symptoms often resemble common digestive issues. Most people are diagnosed at a late stage, making treatment more difficult. Here are key signs to watch for:
**1. Persistent Abdominal Pain**
Unlike regular stomach pain, cancer-related pain is frequent, intense, and often felt in the upper abdomen. It doesn’t go away with medication and may worsen when you’re hungry or after eating.
**2. Loss of Appetite and Nausea**
Patients often avoid eating due to nausea, dry mouth, or fear of discomfort. As one section noted, “food is difficult to digest regularly, resulting in a loss of appetite.”
**3. Vomiting and Digestive Issues**
As the tumor grows, it can block digestion, causing frequent vomiting, reflux, constipation, or diarrhea. Cancer treatments can also worsen these symptoms.
**4. Unexplained Weight Loss and Black Stools**
Weight loss happens quickly as cancer disrupts digestion and nutrient absorption. Black stools may signal internal bleeding from the tumor.
**5. Pale Skin and Fatigue**
Bleeding and poor nutrient absorption often lead to anemia, leaving patients “constantly weary, skinny, and pale.”
If you experience ongoing bloating, heartburn, trouble swallowing, or a feeling of fullness, see a doctor immediately for tests and early detection.
