Signs and Symptoms of Stomach Cancer:

1. Persistent Indigestion or Heartburn: Chronic indigestion, heartburn, or discomfort in the upper abdomen that persists for several weeks should not be ignored. While these symptoms are common and can be caused by various factors, they may also indicate underlying stomach cancer.
2. Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unintentional weight loss, especially without changes in diet or exercise habits, may be a warning sign of stomach cancer. Cancer cells consume energy and nutrients at a rapid rate, leading to weight loss and muscle wasting.
3. Loss of Appetite: A sudden or persistent loss of appetite, accompanied by a feeling of fullness even after consuming small amounts of food, may indicate stomach cancer. Individuals may experience early satiety and a reluctance to eat, leading to unintended weight loss.
4. Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Persistent abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating, particularly in the upper abdomen, may be indicative of stomach cancer. This pain may worsen after eating or may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
5. Nausea and Vomiting: Chronic nausea, vomiting, or feelings of queasiness, especially if they are recurrent or severe, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. These symptoms may indicate stomach cancer or other gastrointestinal disorders.
6. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest may be a sign of advanced stomach cancer. Dysphagia occurs when tumors in the stomach or esophagus obstruct the passage of food.
7. Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent fatigue, weakness, or lethargy, even with adequate rest, may be a sign of stomach cancer. Cancer-related fatigue is often debilitating and can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.
8. Blood in the Stool: Blood in the stool, which may appear bright red or black and tarry, can be a warning sign of stomach cancer. Bleeding from the stomach or upper digestive tract may occur due to ulceration or erosion of cancerous tumors.
9. Anemia: Chronic bleeding from stomach cancer can lead to iron deficiency anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness, and pallor. Anemia may be detected through blood tests that measure hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.
10. Jaundice: Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, may occur in advanced stages of stomach cancer. This occurs when cancerous tumors obstruct the bile ducts, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream.