Did you know that symptoms of stomach cancer can include burping a lot? Stomach cancer has many symptoms and often it can pass for indigestion or «nothing serious». However, this cancer can have serious consequences. Here are the most common symptoms of stomach cancer and what to do if you spot early warning signs.
This type of cancer it is more common in men, and more than half of people who are diagnosed with the condition are over the age of 75.
Related news
Symptoms of stomach cancer can be difficult to detect because they reflect other, less serious stomach conditions.
However, this reinforces the importance of not dismissing symptoms as ‘nothing serious’ without consulting your GP.
Although statistically the symptoms are much more likely to be a digestive problem than stomach cancer, you should see a health professional to rule out cancer and get treatment for your symptoms.
What are the most common symptoms of stomach cancer?
According to the NHS, many of the symptoms of stomach cancer can affect your digestion.
These may include:
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Having trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
- feeling or being sick
- Symptoms of indigestion, such as burping a lot
- Feeling full very quickly when eating
Other symptoms can affect your overall health, such as:
- loss of appetite
- lose weight without trying
- A lump in the upper part of the belly
- Pain in the upper part of the belly
- Feeling tired or without energy
Some people with digestive conditions or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may experience symptoms like these on a regular basis, but if you notice worsening symptoms or anything out of the ordinary for you, it’s worth getting checked out.
It’s especially important to watch out for these symptoms if you’re a man over the age of 75, as this puts you in the highest risk category, but anyone who is concerned should see a doctor.
What will happen at the doctor’s appointment?
If you go to the doctor with concerns about your stomach, the GP will examine your belly and look for lumps.
The GP will have to ask you questions about your symptoms: try not to feel embarrassed, this is your day to day.
It can be helpful to make a note of your symptoms beforehand, tracking when they started and whether they have gotten progressively worse.
They may also ask you for a urine or stool sample and may ask you to have a blood test.
If your doctor suspects that you may have a condition causing your symptoms, you may be referred for an appointment with a specialist.
The NHS says: “This may be an urgent referral, usually within 2 weeks, if you have certain symptoms.
«This definitely does NOT mean you have cancer.»