2. Early symptoms – when should we see a doctor?
In its early stages, stomach cancer often occurs without clear signs, but there are some symptoms that should not be ignored.
Stomach complaints:
-
Feeling of heaviness and bloating after eating, even with a small amount of food.
-
Heartburn or belching that didn’t bother you before.
-
Nausea for no apparent reason, sometimes accompanied by vomiting (which may contain traces of blood).
-
Aversion to certain foods – most often meat, fish, and other protein products.
-
Dull pain or burning in the upper abdomen, especially after eating.
-
Common signs:
-
Unmotivated weight loss – 5–7 kg in a few months.
-
Constant fatigue, lack of energy, apathy.
-
Anemia – paleness, dizziness, weakness.
-
Dark or black stools – a possible sign of internal bleeding.
Important: These symptoms can also occur with other diseases such as gastritis or ulcers, but you should not ignore them. Timely consultation with a doctor is the surest way to rule out a serious diagnosis.
3. Diagnostics – how to check the stomach
If you have suspicions, the doctor may recommend the following tests:
Gastroscopy (FGDS)
-
Allows direct viewing of the gastric mucosa with an endoscope.
-
If necessary, a biopsy is taken for laboratory analysis.
-
Recommended frequency: after the age of 40 – once every 2-3 years, and in case of chronic diseases – once a year.
Test for Helicobacter pylori
-
It is performed by testing blood, exhaled air, or a fecal sample.
-
If the bacteria is detected, treatment with antibiotics and preparations to restore the mucosa is prescribed.
Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scan
-
They provide information about the possible spread of the disease and the presence of metastases.
Tumor marker analysis (CA 72-4, CEA)
-
It does not replace gastroscopy, but can be an additional guide to the condition of the body.
- continued on next page
For complete cooking times, go to the next page or click the Open button (>), and don't forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends.
-
