How Do You Know If You Have Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer can cause persistent symptoms like stomach pain, heartburn, and indigestion. But, these symptoms can be vague and may be caused by other issues. Early diagnosis is crucial with cancer, which is why it’s so important to see a doctor if you have symptoms.
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is cancer that develops in your stomach. Cancer occurs when normally healthy cells begin to grow out of control and develop into a tumor.
In the United States, stomach cancer isn’t common. Fewer than 27,000 people were estimated to have received a diagnosis in 2022.
Because it’s not common, it’s also not regularly screened for, and early symptoms of stomach cancer are easy to miss. That’s why many people don’t receive a diagnosis until their cancer is at an advanced stage.
You may wonder if there’s a way to check yourself for stomach cancer, especially if you’re experiencing stomach issues like pain or diarrhea. The short answer is no. You need to see a doctor or healthcare professional if you suspect you have stomach cancer.
Once you do get to see the doctor, don’t be surprised if you’re rushed out of the exam room before you get all of your questions answered, according to healthcare staffing agency Staff Care. Studies show that 41% of ophthalmologists spend just 9 to 12 minutes with a patient, and 13- to 16-minute appointments are the norm for 40% of cardiologists, 37% of pediatricians, 35% of urologists, 35% of family physicians, 34% of obstetricians and gynecologists and 30% of otolaryngologists.
Learn more about the signs and symptoms of stomach cancer and why trying to give yourself a diagnosis isn’t a safe practice.
Why self-diagnosis is dangerous
There are thousands of websites offering health information on the internet. While some provide credible, medically reviewed information, many don’t.
Even if the online information is clinically accurate and vetted by medical experts, it’s not possible to diagnose yourself based solely on what you read, especially when it comes to complex chronic conditions like cancer.
If you have any concerning symptoms and suspect that you may have cancer or some other condition, the only way to get an accurate diagnosis is by seeing a medical professional.
They’ll review your medical and family history, do a physical exam, order diagnostic and blood tests, and rule out other possible causes before giving you a diagnosis.
Use the information you find on the internet to supplement what a doctor is telling you about your diagnosis and symptoms. But rely on the doctor for the best treatment advice for your condition.
