A bloated stomach, tummy pain and cramps are usually a result of trapped wind, which happens when the digestive system struggles to digest certain foods.
However, bloating and stomach pain are also symptoms of stomach cancer.
Stomach cancer affects around 6,000 people in the UK each year.
It’s a relatively uncommon type of cancer, but symptoms can be confused with other, much less serious conditions, so it’s important to get any symptoms checked out.
What are the early symptoms of stomach cancer?
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The initial symptoms of stomach cancer include feeling very full or bloated after meals, persistent stomach pain, trapped wind and frequent burping.
Persistent indigestion and heartburn are also early signs.
In most cases these symptoms will not mean you have stomach cancer, but rather digestion problems.
What other symptoms signify stomach cancer?
Other symptoms can include feeling sick, pain in the breastbone, difficulty swallowing and vomiting – the latter which may be streaked with blood.
Symptoms of advanced stomach cancer include blood in the poo or black poo, loss of appetite, weight loss, tiredness and a lump or swelling in the stomach.
Anaemia and jaundice can also occur in the advanced stages of stomach cancer.
When should you see a doctor?
According to the NHS, stomach cancer is usually easier to treat when diagnosed early.
It’s therefore important for your GP to refer you to a specialist as soon as possible if stomach cancer is suspected.
Stomach cancer is “much more” common in older people, according to the health service, with 90 out of 100 cases occurring in people aged over 55.
Indigestion is a very common problem in people in the UK, but it’s unlikely it is a sign of stomach cancer if you are under the age of 55.
However, the NHS advises seeing a doctor if indigestion is experienced alongside weight loss, anaemia or persistent vomiting.
“See your GP as soon as possible if you have stomach cancer symptoms such as indigestion, unexpected weight loss, anaemia and persistent vomiting.”
Also see a GP if you have difficulty swallowing. “This isn’t a common symptom among the general population and the cause should always be investigated,” said the NHS.