9 Warning Signs of Gastric Cancer

Many people are unaware of the signs and symptoms of gastric cancer, which can lead to a delayed diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing these warning signs early on can significantly impact the outcomes of the disease. Here are 9 common signs of gastric cancer to watch out for:

One of the most common signs of gastric cancer is unexplained weight loss. If you find yourself losing weight without trying, it could be a red flag for gastric cancer. This weight loss is often rapid and significant, not just a few pounds here and there.

Persistent abdominal pain, especially in the upper abdomen, could be a sign of gastric cancer. This pain may come and go or be constant, but if it persists for more than a few weeks, it’s important to see a doctor for further evaluation.

If you find yourself feeling full quickly after eating only a small amount of food, it could be a sign of gastric cancer. This sensation of fullness is often accompanied by bloating and discomfort.

Severe indigestion that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter remedies or changes in diet could be a warning sign of gastric cancer. This indigestion may also be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is another common sign of gastric cancer. This can occur when the tumor in the stomach grows large enough to block the passage of food through the esophagus.

Vomiting blood, also known as hematemesis, is a serious symptom that should never be ignored. This could be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be caused by gastric cancer among other conditions.

Black, tarry stools, also known as melena, can be a sign of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which may be caused by gastric cancer. This is due to the presence of digested blood in the stool.

Weakness and fatigue are common symptoms of many illnesses, but when they are persistent and unexplained, they could be a sign of gastric cancer. The cancer can cause anemia, leading to these symptoms.

Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, can be a sign of advanced gastric cancer when the tumor is blocking the bile duct. This symptom usually appears in later stages of the disease.