What are the first signs of stomach cancer?

These symptoms are common and often have causes other than cancer, such as reflux, an ulcer, infection, or medication effects. Stomach cancer may also cause vague symptoms at first, so a change that persists or worsens deserves assessment. A clinician may review your history, examine your abdomen, and arrange tests such as blood work, imaging, or an endoscopy.

Persistent abdominal pain, persistent indigestion, and unexplained weight loss are useful symptom details to record, including when they began and whether eating changes them.

Arrange a medical appointment for symptoms that do not settle, return repeatedly, or interfere with eating. Bring a list of medicines, relevant medical conditions, and any family history of stomach or other cancers. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice. If testing finds a stomach tumour, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, HER2-targeted therapy, or immunotherapy depending on its features and extent.

Seek urgent medical help if you vomit blood, pass black or tarry stools, feel faint, develop severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, or cannot keep fluids down. These signs can indicate bleeding or another problem needing prompt treatment, whether or not cancer is present.

Ask what could explain your symptoms, which test is appropriate first, whether you need an endoscopy, and which warning signs should prompt urgent care. You can also ask how eating, medicines, and family history affect the assessment.