Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, is an illness characterized by the development of cancer cells within the lining of the stomach. It is a relatively rare type of cancer that may show absolutely no symptoms in the early stages, making diagnosis difficult. That said, the condition is associated with discomfort and pain when symptoms do start to surface. This article looks at the symptoms and causes of gastric cancer.

Symptoms of gastric cancer

• Frequent heartburn
  People may normally experience acid reflux due to certain foods or lifestyle habits. That said, an individual with gastric cancer may experience frequent heartburn.
• Difficulty swallowing
  This symptom of stomach cancer can occur due to a tumor’s location, or it could be a side effect of the ongoing treatment.
• Lack of appetite and easily feeling full
  The tumor in the stomach may cause irritation and swelling, and cancer may change the way the stomach breaks down food in the advanced stages. This change in metabolism can manifest as a loss of appetite. Even small meals could make the patient feel full easily, hampering their nutrient intake.
• Sudden weight loss
  A constant feeling of fullness and bloating can cause an individual to eat less and compromise their daily nutritional intake, leading to weight loss. Side effects of medications and treatment can also lead to a lack of appetite and result in weight loss.
• Jaundice
  While this symptom is rare in gastric cancer patients, one may develop jaundice if cancer spreads to the liver or bile ducts or if the tumor blocks the bile ducts.
• Blood with stools
  The swelling and inflammation in the stomach can lead to blood in the stools.
• Stomach pain and cramps
  Abdominal pain and cramping that range from mild to extreme are common among people with stomach cancer, and pain usually worsens after a meal.
• Nausea and vomiting
  The illness may cause people to throw up solid foods or make them feel nauseous, restricting them from eating or drinking anything. The vomit may also contain blood at times.

Causes of gastric cancer
The exact cause of this type of cancer is unknown, but it develops due to the abnormal growth of cells in the stomach. These cells grow and multiply rapidly, outliving the healthy cells. They accumulate in the stomach, forming a tumor that gradually spreads to the surrounding healthy tissues, lymph nodes, and organs.