Symptoms of stomach cancer in its early stage are mild and vague, stronger symptoms appear once the tumour grows into the surrounding tissues and organs. This is why most people are diagnosed with advanced stomach cancer [13].
Early symptoms of stomach cancer include:
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain; may be present as a vague, mild pain
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Changes to digestion; feeling full after a small meal, heartburn or nausea
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Vomiting, with or without blood
- Anemia
Late symptoms of stomach cancer occur as the cancer grows larger or spreads to other parts of the body, including other organs. This is defined as advanced stomach cancer. Late signs and symptoms of stomach cancer include:
- Difficulty or pain swallowing
- A lump in the abdomen that can be during an examination
- Ascites: buildup of fluid in the abdomen
- Jaundice
- Vomiting, with or without blood
- Blood in the stool
- A krukenberg tumour: lump on the ovary
- Blumer shelf: small tumours on the peritoneum, which can be felt during a rectal exam
Symptoms of stomach cancer can be caused by other health issues. Nonetheless, it is important to have any symptoms checked by a doctor.