According to the latest stats, stomach cancer is North America’s second most common type of cancer. While many different types of cancer can occur in the gastrointestinal system, it usually starts from the esophagus and travels to the stomach. This article will begin by explaining what stomach cancer feels like and follow up with a few tips about managing it properly.
Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, starts in the stomach. The most common type of stomach cancer is adenocarcinoma, which begins in the cells lining the stomach. Other less common types include gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), lymphomas, and sarcomas.
Most people with early-stage have no symptoms. As cancer grows, it can cause symptoms such as:
-Weight loss
-Loss of appetite
-Upper abdominal pain
-Nausea and vomiting
-Blood in the stool
-Fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see your doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat the problem. There are many treatment options for stomach cancer, depending on the stage of the disease. Surgery is often the first course of treatment, followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. If you have stomach cancer, you must work closely with your medical team to develop a treatment plan.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
There are many symptoms of stomach cancer, and they often depend on the cancer stage. In the early stages, stomach cancer may not cause any symptoms. As cancer grows, it can affect the digestive system, causing indigestion, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Cancer can also cause bleeding in the stomach, which can lead to black stools or blood in vomit. In later stages, stomach cancer can spread to other parts of the body and cause pain in the abdomen, back, or jaw. It can also cause fatigue and weakness. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor immediately so they can rule out other potential causes and begin treatment if necessary.
Risks of Stomach Cancer
While stomach cancer is a severe illness, many treatment options are available, and the vast majority of patients can be cured. However, there are some risks associated with cancer, particularly in the later stages of the disease.
The most common risk factor for stomach cancer is age, with the vast majority of cases occurring in people over 60. Other risk factors include a family history of stomach cancer, a diet high in processed meats and salt, and infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
Most stomach cancers are caught early when they are small and confined to the stomach lining. However, if the cancer is not detected early, it can spread to other body parts, such as the liver or lungs. This can make treatment much more complex and the chances of survival much lower.
Please speak to your doctor if you have any concerns about your risk of developing tumor.
Medicines to Treat Stomach Cancer
Depending on the individual case, several different types of medicines can be used. These include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is typically given intravenously (through a vein) and can be used as either first-line or second-line therapy after surgery. Common side effects of chemotherapy include hair loss, nausea, and vomiting.
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that targets specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. It is typically given orally (in pill form) and can be used as either first-line or second-line treatment after surgery. Common side effects of targeted therapy include skin rash, diarrhea, and fatigue.
Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that helps the body’s immune system kill cancer cells. It is typically given intravenously (through a vein) and can be used as either first-line or second-line treatment after surgery. Common side effects of immunotherapy include fever, chills, and fatigue.
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Managing the Side Effects of Treatment
Many side effects can occur when undergoing treatment . While some may be mild and manageable, others can be more severe. It is essential to discuss with your doctor what to expect in terms of side effects before starting treatment. This way, you can better prepare yourself and have the plan to manage them.
The most common side effect of treatment is fatigue. This can make it difficult to do everyday activities or even get out of bed. It is important to rest when you need to and limit your activity as much as possible. You may also want to ask your friends or family for help with things around the house.
Another common side effect is nausea and vomiting, which can be caused by the chemotherapy drugs used to treatment. Some ways to help manage these symptoms include medication, dietary changes, and relaxation techniques. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what options are available and what might work best for you.
Other potential side effects include pain, diarrhea, constipation, mouth sores, hair loss, and more. As with fatigue and nausea/vomiting, treatments are available to help manage these symptoms. Again, it is essential to talk to your doctor about what options are available and what might work best for you based on your situation.
