Stomach Cancer
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Stomach cancer
usually starts in the cells that line the stomach but may form anywhere in the stomach. It is also called gastric cancer.
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Common symptoms include the following:
- Heartburn, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling bloated or full even after a small meal
- Trouble swallowing food
- Blood in your vomit or bowel movement
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) for any of the following:
- You suddenly feel lightheaded and short of breath.
- You have chest pain when you take a deep breath or cough.
- You cough up blood.
Seek care immediately if:
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- You are vomiting and cannot keep food or liquids down.
- You are dizzy or feel confused.
Call your doctor or oncologist if:
- Your pain is worse or does not go away after you take pain medicine.
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment for stomach cancer
may include any of the following:
- Surgery called gastrectomy may be used to remove part or all of your stomach.
- Chemotherapy is medicine to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may also be used to shrink lymph nodes that contain cancer.
- Radiation therapy uses x-rays or gamma rays to kill cancer cells and may stop the cancer from spreading.
- Medicine to prevent or treat blood clots may be needed.
Manage stomach cancer:
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can make it more difficult to manage stomach cancer. Nicotine products also increase your risk for new or returning cancer and delays healing after treatment. Do not use e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in place of cigarettes or to help you quit. They still contain nicotine. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently use any tobacco product and need help quitting.
- Eat healthy foods. Increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat. Other healthy foods include whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Limit foods such as salami, corned beef, ham, and bacon.
- Drink liquids as directed. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. Drink extra liquids to prevent dehydration. You will also need to replace fluid if you are vomiting or have diarrhea from cancer treatments.
- Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can cause more stomach damage.
- Exercise as directed. Exercise can help increase your energy level and appetite. Ask your provider how much exercise you need and which exercises are best for you.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Follow up with your doctor or oncologist as directed:
You will need to see your oncologist for ongoing tests and treatment. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
For support and more information:
- American Cancer Society
250 Williams Street
Atlanta , GA 30303
Phone: 1- 800 - 227-2345
Web Address: http://www.cancer.org
© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Stomach Cancer
Treatment options
Care guides
Symptoms and treatments
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
