Signs and Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

It is rare to experience symptoms in the early stages of stomach (gastric) cancer. This is why it can be hard to detect the disease before it has progressed. The signs and symptoms of stomach cancer can vary based on the severity of the stage of the cancer: 

Early Stage Symptoms of Gastric Cancers

  • Heartburn or indigestion
  • Vague discomfort in the abdomen, usually above the navel
  • Nausea without other causes
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Feeling full after eating only a small amount

Late Stage Symptoms of Gastric Cancers

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Swelling or fluid build-up in the abdomen
  • Vomiting, with or without blood
  • Low red blood cell count (anemia)
  • Blood in the stool
  • Pain in the abdomen (stomach area)