Stomach Cancer: Gastroenterologist says these 6 symptoms are easily mistaken for bloating or gas

Digestive issues are something most of us deal with. From heavy meals to just an off day, bloating, indigestion, and gas are usually explained away as nothing serious. But what few people know is that chronic stomach trouble can be the symptom of something more deeper. One of them is stomach cancer, a silent moving illness in the beginning.

The challenge lies in recognition. As symptoms can resemble common digestive woes, the condition is often left undiagnosed until it has progressed. This is what makes awareness so crucial: the sooner stomach cancer is detected, the better a person’s prognosis for successful treatment and recovery.

Many patients tend to ignore early symptoms of stomach cancer and take them as minor digestive problems, Dr Arjun Deshpande, a Delhi-based gastro enterologist with over 15 years experience in digestive health told Moneycontrol. “They’re typically by the time they come in for help. The first step toward saving lives is to notice subtle signs.”

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Here are 6 early symptoms that can be easily mistaken for routine bloating or an upset stomach but they could actually indicate something more serious.

• Persistent Indigestion

It’s normal to experience indigestion after a large meal, but ongoing discomfort that never seems to go away — even after making dietary changes or taking over-the-counter medication — may be an indicator that something more wish-washy is going on.

• Frequent Bloating

If bloating is constant and not related to what you're eating, it could be a sign of abnormal cell growth in the lining of your stomach.

• Loss of Appetite

A sudden lack of appetite, particularly if it’s accompanied by weight loss, can be an early sign of cancer.

• Unexplained Fatigue

The condition, called anemia, can cause you to feel fatigued or weak even when you get plenty of rest. Some people with stomach cancer have anemia because the cancer has caused bleeding in their stomachs.

• Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea, with or without repeated vomiting, especially if it's causing you to vomit blood justifies an urgent call/ visit to your Doctor.

Also read: Early symptoms of cancer don't always include lumps or pain, watch out for fatigue, anaemia, bruising

• Stomach Pain or Discomfort

Chronic upper abdominal pain or fullness after eating small amounts of food may indicate a serious condition. The Doctor reminds us to pay close attention to any continued or strange changes in digestion, as it can be a game changer. Should you experience these symptoms more than once, seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early detection saves lives.

FAQs about stomach cancer

1. What are common symptoms of stomach cancer?

Common symptoms include persistent indigestion, frequent bloating, loss of appetite, unexplained fatigue, nausea or vomiting, and stomach pain or discomfort.

2. Why is early detection of stomach cancer important?

Early detection improves the prognosis for successful treatment and recovery, as the condition is often left undiagnosed until it has progressed.

3. What should I do if I experience these symptoms?

If you experience these symptoms more than once, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

4. Can these symptoms be mistaken for other digestive issues?

Yes, these symptoms can resemble common digestive woes, which is why they are often overlooked.

5. Who is at risk of stomach cancer?

Anyone can be at risk, but individuals with chronic digestive problems should be particularly vigilant.

6. Is chronic stomach trouble always a sign of cancer?

No, but chronic stomach trouble should not be ignored as it can be a symptom of something deeper, including cancer.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.