7 Signs of Stomach Cancer

Originally published: September 2021 

Stomach cancer – also known as gastric cancer – is the fifth most common cancer in the world. One of the biggest challenges with this disease is that the early symptoms are often vague and can easily be mistaken for less serious digestive issues. 

But understanding what to watch for could make a life-saving difference. Early detection and timely treatment greatly increase the chances of successful recovery. 

Here are seven symptoms to pay attention to.

1. Abdominal Pain or Discomfort

Stomach aches are common, but persistent pain or discomfort, especially in the upper abdomen or just above the navel, can be a red flag. In some cases, stomach cancer may also lead to swelling or a buildup of fluid in the abdomen.

If pain or discomfort lasts for more than a few days or keeps returning, it's worth bringing up with your doctor.

2. Indigestion or Heartburn

Ongoing indigestion or heartburn that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter remedies may be more than just a reaction to what you ate. As cancer cells begin to grow and interfere with normal stomach function, acid reflux and digestive issues can become more frequent. Don’t ignore symptoms that keep coming back.

3. Loss of Appetite

If you’re feeling full after only a few bites or notice a sudden drop in your appetite, it might be more than just stress or a busy schedule. Tumors in the stomach can interfere with your body’s hunger signals and even make it uncomfortable to eat. Over time, this can lead to unexplained weight loss and fatigue.

4. Diarrhea or Constipation

Changes in your bowel habits – like frequent diarrhea or new constipation – can sometimes be caused by cancer affecting the digestive tract. A tumor could block or narrow the intestines, disrupting how waste moves through the body. If these changes are persistent and unexplained, don’t dismiss them.

5. Blood in the Stool or Vomit

While rare, stomach cancer can cause internal bleeding. If this happens, you might notice blood in your vomit or stool. The blood may appear bright red, dark red, or even black, depending on how long it’s been in your system. Even small amounts of blood should be evaluated by a doctor.

6. Low Red Blood Cell Count (Anemia)

Internal bleeding from a stomach tumor can lead to anemia, which means your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells. This limits how much oxygen gets to your tissues and organs and can leave you feeling weak, tired, or short of breath. A blood test can help identify anemia early.

7. Nausea and Vomiting

Tumors in the stomach can block or slow down digestion, causing nausea or vomiting, especially after eating solid foods. These symptoms can also occur with less serious conditions like ulcers or viruses, but if they persist or worsen, it’s important to get checked out.

Bottom Line

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, especially more than one, it’s important to talk with your doctor. While they could be related to a range of health conditions, early evaluation is key. Catching stomach cancer early can make all the difference.

Care New England is here to help. Our expert physicians provide personalized, high-quality care to support you every step of the way. Contact us to learn more or schedule an appointment.