My 55-year-old husband has been having poor appetite and weight loss for the past few months. I read about these symptoms on google and they appear to tally with stomach cancer. Kindly help me to clarify.
Dorothy (by email)
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, can have subtle or nonspecific early symptoms, which makes it challenging to detect in its initial stages. However, recognizing the early signs can help with prompt diagnosis. Here are some of the first signs and symptoms of stomach cancer: Indigestion or Heartburn, persistent indigestion, bloating, or a burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen may occur. These symptoms are often mistaken for common digestive issues, and unexplained weight loss. A sudden, unexplained loss of weight without changes in diet or physical activity can be an early warning sign. A noticeable reduction in appetite or a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food. Persistent nausea or occasional vomiting. In some cases, vomiting may contain blood or look like coffee grounds (a sign of internal bleeding). Mild or persistent discomfort in the upper abdomen, which might feel like pressure or fullness. However, these symptoms are not exclusive to stomach cancer and can also result from other less severe conditions, such as gastritis, ulcers, or acid reflux. However, if these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it is essential to consult your doctor for further evaluation, especially if you have risk factors for stomach cancer (e.g., family history, H. pylori infection, smoking, or a diet high in salty or smoked foods). Early detection can improve outcomes, so do not ignore persistent or worsening symptoms.
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