Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the lining of the stomach. While it is not as common as other types of cancer, it is still a serious condition that can have devastating effects on the body.

Like most cancers, early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s important to know the early warning signs of gastric cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

Gastric cancer symptoms can vary, and not everyone experiences the same symptoms. Some common symptoms of gastric cancer include:.

1. Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is one of the most common early warning signs of gastric cancer. The pain may be felt in the upper abdomen, lower, or in the sides of the stomach. It may also be described as a dull ache or a sharp pain.

If you experience persistent abdominal pain, be sure to speak with your doctor.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms of gastric cancer. They may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as loss of appetite, feeling full after eating small amounts of food, or a burning sensation in the stomach.

If you experience persistent nausea and vomiting, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

3. Bloating or Indigestion

Bloating and indigestion can be signs of many different health conditions, but they are also early warning signs of gastric cancer.

If you experience persistent bloating or indigestion, it’s important to speak with your doctor to rule out any serious health conditions.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of many different health conditions, but it can also be an early warning sign of gastric cancer. If you experience sudden and unexplained weight loss, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

5. Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of many different health conditions, but it can also be an early warning sign of gastric cancer. If you experience persistent fatigue, it’s important to speak with your doctor to rule out any serious health conditions.

6. Blood in Stool or Vomit

Blood in the stool or vomit can be a sign of many different health conditions, but it can also be an early warning sign of gastric cancer. If you experience blood in your stool or vomit, seek medical attention immediately.

7. Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is a common symptom of gastric cancer. Dysphagia can make it difficult to eat, drink, or even swallow saliva.

If you experience persistent difficulty swallowing, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

8. Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition that causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow. It can be a sign of many different health conditions, including gastric cancer. If you experience jaundice, seek medical attention immediately.

9. Anemia

Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells. It can be a sign of many different health conditions, including gastric cancer. If you experience persistent anemia, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

10. Family History of Gastric Cancer

If you have a family history of gastric cancer, it’s important to speak with your doctor about your risk. While having a family history does not guarantee that you will develop the disease, it does increase your risk.

Conclusion

Gastric cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but it can be treated successfully if caught early. If you experience any of the early warning signs of gastric cancer, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

Remember, early detection is key to successful treatment.