Stomach cancer is a type of cancer that is fairly uncommon and can be difficult to detect in its early stages. The initial symptoms of stomach cancer are vague and easy to mistake for other less serious conditions. However, when stomach cancer does cause signs and symptoms, they can include:

• Poor appetite
• Weight loss (without trying)
• Abdominal (belly) pain
• Vague discomfort in the abdomen, usually above the navel
• Feeling full after eating only a small meal
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Nausea
• Vomiting, with or without blood
• Swelling or fluid build-up in the abdomen
• Blood in the stool
• Feeling tired or weak, as a result of having too few red blood cells (anemia)
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), if the cancer spreads to the liver

Its important to note that many of these symptoms are common in other conditions, too, so they may not necessarily indicate stomach cancer. However, if you have any of these problems, especially if they don’t go away or get worse, you should see a doctor so the cause can be found and treated, if needed. If you are at increased risk of stomach cancer, speak with your provider about the appropriate screening tests.