5. Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired or weak, even after getting plenty of rest, could be a symptom of cancer. The body may become weakened as the disease progresses, or anemia could develop due to internal bleeding.
6. Abdominal Pain
Pain in the upper abdomen or discomfort that worsens after eating is another common symptom. While many different conditions can cause stomach pain, chronic and unexplained discomfort should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
7. Bloating and a Feeling of Fullness
Stomach cancer can cause a feeling of bloating or fullness, especially after eating even small amounts. This sensation can make it difficult to eat normally, leading to further weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
Advanced Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
As stomach cancer progresses, the symptoms often become more pronounced and severe. Advanced stomach cancer can lead to symptoms such as:
- Severe and constant pain in the stomach area.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), especially as the tumor grows and blocks the passage of food.
- Vomiting blood or the presence of blood in stools.
- Swelling in the abdomen, caused by a buildup of fluid (ascites).
- Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, indicating that the cancer has spread to the liver.
These advanced symptoms indicate that the cancer may have spread beyond the stomach and is affecting other organs. At this stage, treatment options become more limited, and the focus may shift to palliative care.