Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the stomach. It can be difficult to diagnose and is often mistaken for other conditions such as indigestion or an ulcer. In this article, we'll discuss what can be mistaken for stomach cancer and how it can be effectively diagnosed.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
The most common symptoms of stomach cancer are abdominal pain, persistent indigestion, unexplained weight loss, anemia, and nausea or vomiting. Other symptoms may include constipation, difficulty swallowing, and blood in the stool. If you have any of these symptoms, you should visit your doctor to get checked out.
Conditions That Can Be Mistaken for Stomach Cancer
There are several conditions that can be mistaken for stomach cancer. These include peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, and acid reflux. Peptic ulcer disease is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach or small intestine. Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can be caused by infections, medications, or stress. Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.
Diagnosing Stomach Cancer
If you have any of the symptoms of stomach cancer, your doctor will likely order a physical examination as well as imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. They may also perform a biopsy of the stomach lining to look for cancer cells. Your doctor may also order blood tests to look for signs of cancer.
Treatment for Stomach Cancer
The treatment for stomach cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the person's overall health. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Your doctor will discuss the best treatment option for your particular case.
Stomach cancer can be difficult to diagnose and is often mistaken for other conditions. If you have any of the symptoms of stomach cancer, it's important to visit your doctor for an evaluation. Your doctor will be able to diagnose the condition and provide the appropriate treatment.