Symptoms

People with stomach cancer may experience the following symptoms. Sometimes, people with stomach cancer do not show any of these symptoms. Or, these symptoms may be caused by a medical condition that is not cancer. If you are concerned about a symptom on this list, please talk with your doctor.

Stomach cancer is usually not found at an early stage because it often does not cause specific symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may be vague and can include:

• Indigestion or heartburn
  
  
• Pain or discomfort in the abdomen
  
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  
  
• Diarrhea or constipation
  
  
• Bloating of the stomach after meals
  
  
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms of advanced stomach cancer may include:

• Weakness and fatigue
  
  
• Vomiting blood or having blood in the stool
  
  
• Unexplained weight loss

It is important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by many other illnesses, such as a stomach virus or an ulcer. People with the symptoms listed above should talk with their doctor.