Stomach cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that begins in the stomach. The stomach is part of the digestive system. It’s in the upper left side of the tummy (abdomen). The risk of developing stomach cancer increases as we get older, and over half of people who develop it are 75 or older. It is also more common in men than in women.
According to Dr El-Hayek, writing for the Cleveland Clinic potential “warning signs” of stomach cancer may show up when you go to the toilet.
The Dr states: “Your bowel habits have changed. Maybe you’re experiencing recurrent bouts of diarrhoea or constipation that are out of the ordinary.”
“You have blood in your stool or vomit. This is much less common, but it can happen if you’re losing a lot of blood,” adds Dr El-Hayek.
The NHS notes: “There are many possible symptoms of stomach cancer, but they might be hard to spot.” This is partially because some signs can also be symptoms of other conditions. The Mayo Clinic says that signs and symptoms of stomach cancer may include difficulty swallowing, feeling bloated after eating, and feeling full after eating small amounts of food.
You may also experience heartburn, indigestion, nausea. stomach pain, unintentional weight loss and vomiting. It adds: “If you have signs and symptoms that worry you, make an appointment with your doctor.