Gastric Cancers and Tumors

Gastric cancer is another name for stomach cancer. While less common than many other types of cancer, gastric cancers can be serious and require aggressive treatment. Stomach cancer is the third most common cause of cancer-related death.

The most common type of gastric cancer is called adenocarcinoma of the stomach. This type of cancer develops in the cells that make up the mucosal lining of your stomach. Approximately 90%-95% of all gastric cancers are adenocarcinoma of the stomach.

One of the reasons gastric cancer is difficult to diagnose is because the symptoms mimic many other gastric issues. Early symptoms include:

• Sensation of fullness during meals and bloating after eating
• Stomach ache
• Frequent need to burp
• Problems swallowing
• Persistent indigestion
• Heartburn

If any of these symptoms are accompanied by vomiting, anemia, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss, seek medical attention right away. There are many stages of stomach cancer, ranked according to how many abnormal cells are present, where they’re located within your stomach, and whether they’ve spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Early diagnosis and treatment increase your chance for survival. That’s why it is so important to schedule a diagnostic examination if you experience the symptoms mentioned above.

Your treatment path depends on how advanced your cancer is, as well as your overall health. Some gastric cancers can be treated with chemotherapy and radiation. Others require surgical intervention, and various medications are common with all these treatment options.

Surgical solutions might focus on removing tumors or a portion of your stomach. In some cases, your entire stomach must be removed. Gastric surgeries usually require a week or more in the hospital to closely monitor your condition and ensure you’re recovering properly.

As with all surgical procedures, adhering to the guidelines set out by your surgeon can help speed your recovery process. Common suggestions include quitting smoking before your procedure, improving your nutrition, and taking steps to keep your incision clean to prevent infection. You should also communicate with your surgeon about any condition that seems unusual as you move through recovery.

If you’d like to learn more about diagnostic and treatment services for gastric cancers, schedule an appointment at Candela and Schreier Medical Corporation today. You can book your visit online or by phone.