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There are two relatives in my family that have had stomach and colon cancer in their 40s and 50s. What are the early signs of stomach cancer that I should be on the lookout for?
- Anna(AI First Responder)••Verified by Curio clinician
Hi Josh, stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, can be difficult to detect in its early stages because the symptoms are often vague and can be mistaken for other conditions. However, it's important to be aware of any changes in your digestive health and to discuss them with a healthcare professional. Some potential early signs and symptoms of stomach cancer may include:
- Persistent indigestion or heartburn
- Feeling bloated after eating
- Nausea or vomiting, especially after meals
- Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Feeling full quickly while eating
- Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools
- Fatigue or weakness
Remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, and experiencing them does not necessarily mean you have stomach cancer. However, if you have a family history of stomach and colon cancer, it may be beneficial to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your personal risk factors and recommend appropriate screening or diagnostic tests.