Stomach (Gastric) Cancer Symptoms

The early stages of stomach cancer can be easy to miss. The symptoms, which can include an upset stomach and general stomach discomfort, are quite common and usually aren’t related to anything serious. For example, an upset stomach can be mistaken for indigestion or a stomach virus. For these reasons, diagnosing stomach cancer in its earliest stages can be challenging.

Some symptoms that could be caused by stomach cancer when it’s in the early stages include:

• constant stomach pain, indigestion, or discomfort
• heartburn
• bloating, especially after eating
• mild nausea
• loss of appetite
• fatigue

As stomach cancer becomes more advanced, the symptoms become more prominent and noticeable. They can include:

• unexplained or unintentional weight loss
• vomiting after meals
• stomach pain, especially after meals
• trouble swallowing
• weakness
• belching (burping)
• fluid buildup around the stomach (called ascites)
• the development of a yellow tint to the skin or the whites of the eyes (called jaundice)
• blood tests that show anemia
• a persistent stomach ulcer

These symptoms may be related to a different condition unrelated to stomach cancer. However, if you experience any of them or are concerned, speak with your doctor to see if you should undergo diagnostic testing.