What Are the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer?

People who have early stomach cancer that has not spread do not usually have symptoms or signs of the cancer. However, as the cancer grows, it can cause symptoms like these.

• Unexplained weight loss

• Abdominal pain or vague pain just above the belly button area

• Indigestion, heartburn, or vomiting

• Loss of, or decrease in, appetite

• Weakness or fatigue

• Blood in vomit or stool

• A feeling of fullness after small meals

If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor. They are most often signs of something other than stomach cancer.   But you will want to be certain about that.

Advanced cancer can cause a blockage or obstruction of the stomach or nearby large bowel. This can lead to vomiting that doesn’t go away. Cancer can also invade the liver.  In this case, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) or ascites (enlargement of the belly from fluid) may be the most obvious symptoms.