What are the early symptoms of stomach cancer?
Disease description:
Recently, I've been feeling uncomfortable in my stomach quite often. After searching online, I found that it might be stomach cancer, which really scared me. I would like to know what the early symptoms of stomach cancer are.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong
The early symptoms of gastric cancer are often insidious and not easily detected, possibly including upper abdominal discomfort, indigestion, reduced appetite, nausea and vomiting, black or bloody stools, and systemic symptoms.
Approximately 70% of patients may experience upper abdominal discomfort, presenting as intermittent dull pain, which may gradually worsen and become persistent as the disease progresses. Patients may develop persistent indigestion, such as abdominal fullness, belching, and acid reflux. Their interest in food may significantly decrease, even leading to loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.
Some patients may experience symptoms such as nausea, belching, and acid reflux. If the gastric outlet is completely obstructed, the belching may emit a sour or foul odor, or even result in vomiting. When there is bleeding in the stomach, the stool may turn black; in severe cases, bright red blood in the stool may occur directly. A small number of patients may exhibit systemic symptoms such as fatigue, emaciation, and weight loss.
The aforementioned symptoms do not necessarily indicate gastric cancer and may also be caused by other gastric diseases. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to rule out the possibility of gastric cancer.
