Stomach Cancer
Stomach Cancer Symptoms
Certainly, here are the common symptoms of stomach (gastric) cancer:
Persistent Indigestion: Chronic indigestion or discomfort in the upper abdomen, often mistaken for common digestive issues.
Heartburn: Frequent or severe heartburn, sometimes accompanied by acid reflux.
Loss of Appetite: A significant decrease in appetite or a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food.
Unintended Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or physical activity.
Nausea and Vomiting: Frequent nausea, vomiting, or vomiting blood.
Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in the abdomen, often felt above the navel.
Blood in Stool: Dark, tarry stools or stools with visible blood.
Fatigue: Feeling constantly tired or weak, even after getting enough rest.
Swelling or Fluid Buildup: Swelling in the abdomen due to fluid buildup (ascites) as a result of the cancer.
Difficulty Swallowing: Difficulty or pain when swallowing (dysphagia), which may occur in advanced stages.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than stomach cancer. However, if you experience any of these symptoms and they persist for more than a few weeks, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection of stomach cancer can improve the chances of successful treatment.
Stomach Cancer Treatments
Certainly, here are the common treatment options for stomach (gastric) cancer:
Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for stomach cancer. Depending on the stage and location of the cancer, different surgical procedures may be performed. These can include partial or total gastrectomy (removal of a portion or the entire stomach), lymph node removal, and sometimes removal of nearby organs.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be used before surgery to shrink tumors (neoadjuvant therapy), after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells (adjuvant therapy), or as the primary treatment for advanced stomach cancer.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy before surgery (chemoradiation) or to relieve symptoms in advanced cases.
Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapies are drugs that specifically target certain molecules involved in cancer growth. They are designed to be more selective in attacking cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. While not as commonly used for stomach cancer as for other types of cancer, some forms of immunotherapy are being explored in clinical trials.
Palliative Care: For advanced cases of stomach cancer that cannot be cured, palliative care focuses on managing symptoms, pain, and improving the patient’s quality of life.
Clinical Trials: Clinical trials test new treatments or combinations of treatments to determine their effectiveness and safety. Participating in a clinical trial can provide access to experimental therapies.
Treatment decisions depend on factors such as the stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences. Stomach cancer treatment plans are often personalized to each individual’s situation. Patients should have detailed discussions with their healthcare team to fully understand their options and make informed decisions about their treatment plan. Early detection and a comprehensive approach to treatment can significantly impact the outcome for stomach cancer patients.
