×

Stomach Cancer: Symptoms, Signs, and Causes

Home> Stomach cancer> Symptoms and Causes

The most challenging aspect of stomach carcinoma is that its symptoms are not easily recognizable. In fact, some individuals may not experience any of the early symptoms of stomach cancer at all, making it one of the most harrowing diseases.

Some stomach tumor symptoms may be similar to those of other less serious gastric problems, such as GERD, gastritis, peptic ulcers, etc. In these cases, the signs of stomach cancer are not given enough attention, and early detection becomes a challenge.

What are the Different Stomach Cancer Symptoms?

Stomach cancer may present itself in different ways. Stomach or gastric cancer symptoms are often similar to those of other less-serious diseases. Thus, it is essential not to ignore any stomach-related symptoms and see a doctor for a prompt evaluation. Here are some of the stomach tumor symptoms that should not be ignored:

Feeling full after having a small meal

One of the common stomach tumor symptoms is a sense of fullness in the stomach, especially in the upper abdomen, even after having small meals.

Heartburn

Heartburn and indigestion are the first symptoms of stomach cancer in most cases. However, they are often brushed off as non-serious GI issues. If these symptoms last for more than two weeks, they should not be ignored.

Nausea and vomitinge

Some of the patients may also experience nausea and vomiting as signs of stomach cancer.

Loss of appetite

Loss of appetite is also considered a common symptom of stomach carcinoma.

Black stool or vomiting blood

Passing black stools or vomiting blood could also be stomach tumor symptoms.

Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is one of the rare symptoms of stomach carcinoma.

Inexplicable and unintended weight loss

Unexplained weight loss is also a sign of stomach carcinoma. Those who are losing weight without trying should see a doctor and get themselves thoroughly evaluated.

Pain in the abdomen

Abdominal pain is also a symptom of stomach cancer, and it should not be taken lightly, especially if one experiences it along with vomiting and nausea, unexplained weight loss, and black stools.

Fatigue or weakness

Another sign of stomach cancer is fatigue or weakness, especially in the disease's advanced stages.

Buildup of fluid

The buildup of fluid in the stomach, known as ascites, is also a common sign of stomach carcinoma.

Book an Appointment

Top 9 Stomach Cancer Causes

We do not have clear information as to what causes stomach cancer yet. However, certain factors have been identified as possible causes of stomach cancer. Being associated with these risk factors can increase one’s chances of developing stomach cancer.

Here are nine possible stomach cancer causes that one must keep an eye on:

Smoking

Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for stomach cancer. The risk of stomach cancer is significantly lower among those who do not smoke. Many studies have reported that quitting tobacco can remarkably reduce the risk of various types of cancer, including stomach cancer.

Bacterial infection by Helicobacter pylori

Another prominent and possible risk factor for stomach carcinoma is Heliobacter pylori infection. H. pylori is a type of bacteria residing in the stomach lining that can lead to inflammation.

A diet that doesn't include many fruits and vegetables

Consuming a nutrition-less diet that does not include fresh fruits, vegetables, fibers, etc. can also increase the risk of developing stomach cancer and should be avoided.

A dietary pattern including pickled and salted foods

Many studies have reported that consuming salted foods, such as pickles, can increase stomach cancer risk.

Alcohol consumption

Alcohol consumption is another potential reason for stomach cancer. Alcohol, along with smoking, increases stomach cancer risk even more as alcohol enhances the carcinogenic effects of tobacco.

Obesity

Obesity, or excessive weight, is also identified as one of the possible stomach cancer causes.

Frequent exposure to coal, metal, and rubber

Coal, metal, and rubber contain a large number of carcinogens. Thus, frequent exposure to these can increase one’s stomach cancer risk.

Autoimmune atrophic gastritis

Autoimmune atrophic gastritis is a condition when the human immune system attacks the stomach's lining cells, increasing the risk of developing stomach cancer.

Family History of Stomach Cancer

Having a family history of stomach cancer is also a possible reason for stomach cancer.

When should I see an oncologist?

If you are persistently experiencing the symptoms listed above, you should consider visiting your primary care doctor for a check-up. After assessing your symptoms and risk factors, the doctor may recommend a consultation with an oncologist for a conclusive evaluation.

Conclusion

Stomach cancer is a serious disease, and its early detection is challenging. The stage at which cancer is diagnosed has a significant impact on survival rates, quality of life, and other aspects of the disease prognosis.

Often times, stomach tumor symptoms overlap with the symptoms of various less serious gastric problems and, therefore, may be ignored. That said, persistent gastric symptoms are a cause for concern, and they must be properly evaluated for a conclusive diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does stomach cancer start?

Stomach cancer is a slow growing cancer, and patients may not experience any symptoms initially.

Though stomach carcinoma can initiate anywhere in the stomach, it usually begins in the stomach's lining.

Stomach cancer can result in back pain; however, it is uncommon.

Stomach cancer pain may vary from individual to individual. It can be a dull pain, a burning sensation, or a sharp pain in the abdomen.

Yes, a 25-year-old can get stomach cancer, but it is rare.

Gastric neoplasm refers to the growth of abnormal cells in the stomach. It can be classified as a benign or malignant neoplasm of the stomach.

A gastric cancer tumor is the formation of a stomach cancer lump or a mass of cancerous cells in the stomach.

The stomach cancer symptoms in females are similar to those found in males.

Some of the simple ways to identify stomach cancer symptoms include being aware of the symptoms, getting regular checkups, and consulting the doctor in case of any risk factors.

The symptoms of gastric adenocarcinoma may vary from one patient to another. The following are the commonly observed gastric adenocarcinoma symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating or a feeling of fullness
  • Black stools or vomiting blood
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue