Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

A clinical evaluation by a qualified practitioner is probably the most important part in any diagnostic process. The indicators below are points of consideration for your physician in determining the possibility of gastritis, ulcers, or other causes for GI Bleeding.

Age

Age is associated with many of the auto-immune disorders which cause GI Bleeding and/or gastritis. Additionally, older people are much more likely to take NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, such as motrin), for their various aches and pains, or chronic diseases.

Gastritis may cause GI Bleeding from either the chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, or the erosion which may result. GI Bleeding (i.e. bleeding from anywhere in the gastro-intestinal tract) may have a variety of causes. It is helpful in diagnosis to determine the type of bleeding, as it may indicate where and why the bleeding is occurring.

Place: Esophagus
Type of Bleeding: Vomiting bright red (blood) or coffee ground material, Black stools Possible reason(s): Ulcer, varices (blood vessels which are over-filled with coagulated blood; much pressure is exerted against the vessel wall due to the over-filling, which may burst and cause emergent bleeding), Liver disease

The diagnosis of stomach cancer involves taking a medical history and performing a physical examination and laboratory tests. A palpable (i.e., able to be felt with the fingers) tumor or mass may indicate advanced disease.