Stomach or gastric cancer develops in the inner lining of the stomach. This type of cancer typically grows at a slower rate than other forms, and it is easy to overlook the relatively mild symptoms in the early stages. Stomach cancer produces different symptoms depending on the area of the stomach where it develops.

1.Pain in the upper abdomen

Stomach cancer may not present with many symptoms in its earliest stages. When it does, individuals may feel vague abdominal pain and fullness and varying levels of discomfort above the navel. During the later stages of gastric cancer, this can be due to a buildup of fluid in the upper abdomen. This pain may come and go, ranging from dull to severe.

2.Indigestion

Indigestion is a general term that describes discomfort in the upper abdomen. Any type of irritation or inflammation in the area of the stomach can cause this symptom. Although it can be a symptom of stomach cancer, in most cases, indigestion is not indicative of a serious condition and can be treated with over-the-counter medications. It is not unusual for people to experience mild indigestion after eating a big meal or eating too fast. However, anyone experiencing repeated indigestion should speak to a doctor.

3.Feeling sick in general

A person who has stomach cancer may find they become ill more often. The immune system’s focus on fighting cancer leaves the body susceptible to other illnesses and infections. Anyone who is becoming sick more often than previously should schedule an appointment to speak to their doctor, especially if they are experiencing other symptoms as well.

4.Loss of appetite

Often, those with stomach cancer experience a loss of appetite. The disease leaves people without a desire to eat for several days at a time. An unexpected loss of weight due to less food consumption and the body’s efforts to fight the disease may also occur with stomach cancer.�

5.Blood in bowel movements

A common symptom of stomach cancer is blood in the bowel movements. When the stomach or its lining bleeds, the fluid may collect with the rest of the body’s waste. A stool with blood in it can appear almost black in color. While there are other causes of both dark stool and bloody stool, any significant changes to bowel movements should be medically investigated.

6.Nausea

Stomach acid and fluids typically build up in the stomach when one has stomach cancer. This can create nearly constant nausea. Symptoms may also include vomiting or a feeling like one needs to vomit. These symptoms are not solely indicative of stomach cancer, but if coupled with multiple symptoms, may point to a health concern.

7.Fatigue

Feeling tired can be the result of a myriad of conditions and factors. However, when one is sleeping sufficiently, feeling more tired than usual can be a sign of an underlying condition. With gastric cancer, the tumor may bleed microscopically. The loss of small amounts of blood can cause anemia and chronic fatigue.

8.Low-Grade fever

A fever is one way the body fights infection. People with stomach cancer may experience recurring low-grade fevers. This is due in part to the malignancy in the stomach area and the immune system’s efforts to fight it. Fever is more common with advanced stomach cancer.

9.Problems swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is a relatively common symptom of stomach cancer, although it can occur with other health conditions as well. It’s most common in people who have a tumor where the upper stomach meets the esophagus. Some people may feel like they cannot swallow, even if there are no physiological barriers to the action. Individuals who experience this symptom can try to moisten their throats with lozenges. A healthcare professional can run tests to see if this is a symptom of stomach cancer.

10.Night sweats

Frequent night sweats that drench your bedclothes and sheets may be a sign of an underlying health issue, including infections, hormonal changes, or cancers like stomach cancer. While night sweats alone are not a cause for concern, when they occur without any apparent explanation and are accompanied by other symptoms, they should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

11.Unexplained bruising

Unusual and spontaneous bruising or bleeding, especially in areas where you haven’t experienced trauma, can be a warning sign of various medical conditions, including stomach cancer. Bruises associated with cancer typically last 10 days and start out with a reddish hue before changing to purple or brown before fading. If you notice an increase in unexplained bruising, it’s essential to contact a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

12.Mole abnormalities

While changes in skin moles are often associated with skin cancer, other types of cancer (such as stomach cancer) can also cause changes in moles. Pay attention to any mole that exhibits a change in size, shape, color, or texture. Such changes may warrant a dermatologist’s evaluation. If left unchecked, gastrointestinal melanoma can develop.

13.Frequent infections

Frequent, recurrent infections, such as respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, or sinus infections, may raise concerns about the body’s immune system. While recurrent infections may be caused by viruses, bacteria, or underlying medical conditions, they are also associated with cancer. While these recurrent infections may be an indication of stomach cancer, recent research suggests that they may also cause the disease. Several studies found that multiple H. pylori infections pose a significant risk factor for gastric cancer. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience frequent infections to determine if further evaluation is necessary.

14.Shortness of breath

When so severe it interferes with daily life, shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is a concerning symptom that warrants medical attention. It may result from various causes, including heart problems, lung conditions, anxiety, or anemia. When unexplained and persistent however, shortness of breath could be a symptom of several types of cancer, including stomach cancer. Seeking prompt medical evaluation is crucial for a thorough assessment and accurate diagnosis.

15.Spotting Signs of Bleeding

Bleeding in the GI tract is one of the first signs of gastrointestinal cancer. If the bleeding is coming from the stomach or esophagus, the individual will vomit blood with a black, gritty appearance like coffee, if digestion has started. Bleeding from other parts of the GI tract may cause bloody stool; fresh, red blood loss indicates the bleeding is severe, while blood that makes stool appear black indicates blood loss is slower. The person may feel generally unwell if they have been bleeding for some time.