Stomach Cancer
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
– Weight loss
– Loss of appetite
– Abdominal pain or discomfort
– Nausea and vomiting
– Bloating or feeling full after eating
– Difficulty swallowing
– Vomiting blood or black tarry stools
Causes and Risk Factors of Stomach Cancer
– Genetics: A family history of stomach cancer or other cancers can increase the risk.
– Age: Stomach cancer is more common in people over 60.
– Sex: Men are more likely to develop stomach cancer than women.
– Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of stomach cancer.
– Diet: A diet high in salt, processed meat, and low in fruits and vegetables can increase the risk.
– Infection with H. pylori bacteria: H. pylori infection can increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer
Diagnosing stomach cancer involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests, including:
– Endoscopy: An endoscope is a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end that is inserted through the mouth to visualize the stomach.
– Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a sample of tissue from the stomach, which is then examined under a microscope for cancer cells.
– Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans can help visualize the stomach and detect any abnormalities.
Treatment Options for Stomach Cancer
Treatment for stomach cancer depends on the stage and extent of the disease. Treatment options include:
– Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for stomach cancer. The goal of surgery is
to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue.
– Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using medications to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy may be used in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment.
– Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy involves using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy may be used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Surgery for Stomach Cancer
Surgery is often the primary treatment for stomach cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. There are several types of surgery for stomach cancer, including:
– Gastrectomy: This involves removing a portion of the stomach.
– Total gastrectomy: This involves removing the entire stomach.
– Subtotal gastrectomy: This involves removing a portion of the stomach and surrounding tissue.
Chemotherapy for Stomach Cancer
Chemotherapy involves using medications to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment. Common chemotherapy medications used to treat stomach cancer include:
– Fluorouracil (5-FU)
– Cisplatin
– Paclitaxel
– Docetaxel
Radiation Therapy for Stomach Cancer
Radiation therapy involves using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy. There are several types of radiation therapy used to treat stomach cancer, including:
– External beam radiation therapy (EBRT)
– Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy)
– Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
Prevention and Recovery
Preventing stomach cancer involves reducing the risk factors, such as:
– Quitting smoking
– Limiting alcohol consumption
– Maintaining a healthy weight
– Eating a balanced diet
– Avoiding infection with H. pylori bacteria
Recovering from stomach cancer treatment requires a comprehensive approach, including:
– Follow-up care with your doctor
– Maintaining a healthy diet
– Engaging in regular exercise
– Managing stress
– Getting enough sleep
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Tanmay Pareek
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with stomach cancer, it’s essential to seek medical attention from a qualified specialist. Dr. Tanmay Pareek, a renowned GI Oncosurgeon, offers comprehensive care for stomach cancer patients. With his expertise and advanced treatment options, you can trust that you’re in good hands.
Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tanmay Pareek today. Take the first step towards recovery and a healthier tomorrow.
