Abdomen pain, or simply called ‘stomach pain’ is a symptom of several conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract. Two such conditions are stomach cancer and stomach ulcer. These conditions present some common symptoms and share one or two common risk-factors. Which is why, it is easy to mistake one of these conditions for the other. However, a qualified GI Surgeon or doctor can tell the two apart after conducting several diagnostic tests. In this article, we will learn more.
The digestive tract produces hydrochloric acid, and an enzyme called pepsin. Both these substances play a role in digesting the food. From the stomach, the semi-digested food is sent to the upper part of the small intestine called the duodenum. The stomach wall is lined by a mucosal-tissue that prevents the stomach-acid and pepsin from corroding or digesting the stomach tissue. Sometimes, there is an imbalance between the enzyme and acid, as a result, the mucosal-layer is not able to protect itself. As a result, sores, or ulcers start developing on the inside of the stomach-wall. What exactly causes this imbalance is not understood, but there are some risk-factors. The condition is also called peptic-ulcer if the sores are limited to the stomach, and duodenal-ulcer if they are localized to the duodenum.
In advanced stages, the following symptoms may be seen:
Cancer, in any part of the body, is caused when there is mutation of DNA, leading to uncontrolled and abnormal multiplication or division of body-cells. When the same process happens in the stomach, the condition is called stomach cancer. Stomach cancer generally develops or starts from the tissues that line the inner-wall of the stomach. Most of these cancers are of the type – adenocarcinoma. What exactly causes such mutation is not understood but there are some risk-factors.
Given the similarity of symptoms and risk-factors, its not possible for a regular person to precisely diagnose the condition as stomach-cancer or stomach-ulcers. Only a qualified doctor can do that, and he/she will also rely on diagnostic tests to arrive at a conclusion. One should avoid self-diagnosis and self-medication, based on assumptions. Both conditions can have serious long-term complications. So, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek expert medical opinion at a leading gastric surgery hospital like Kauvery Hospital. You can visit one of their branches located in Chennai, Trichy, Hosur, Salem or Tirunelveli.
Stomach ulcers are usually caused by an infection with H. pylori or prolonged use of NSAIDs. These factors create an imbalance between stomach acid and protective mucus, leading to sores in the stomach lining. A Gastro doctor can confirm the cause with diagnostic tests.
Symptoms of stomach cancer include unexplained weight loss, pain around the navel, poor appetite, nausea, and blood in stools. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
To differentiate between a stomach ulcer and stomach cancer, a doctor may use endoscopy, biopsies, or CT scans. Only a qualified Gastro doctor can provide a reliable diagnosis.
Shared risk factors include H. pylori infection, smoking, a family history of stomach issues, and a poor diet. To understand your personal risk factors, speak with a medical professional.
Stomach ulcer treatment typically involves antibiotics for H. pylori, acid-reducing medications, and lifestyle changes. In rare cases, Gastrointestinal surgery may be needed.
Stomach cancer treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the stage and type of cancer. A Gastro surgeon can determine the best treatment plan for your condition.
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and pediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4003500 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 6801
