Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer – Complications 

If stomach cancer is untreated it can lead to serious symptoms such as gastric outlet obstruction (which can present as intractable vomiting), bleeding from the primary tumour, and accumulation of fluid in the abdomen called ascites, which can lead to increased discomfort from bloating and difficulty to ingest food. Further spread of the disease to liver, lung and bones can also cause organ-specific complications. 

If stomach cancer is treated with surgery there are also potential complications, especially if the stomach is removed: 

• Changes in bowel habits – The body may process food differently, resulting in in more frequent bowel movements or difficulty passing motion. 
• A feeling of fullness and change in appetite – Post-surgery a feeling of fullness may persist, making it difficult to eat full meals. As your stomach capacity and reserves would have changed, this will take some time and months to adjust to and it will slowly regain some normalcy. Small frequent meals are advised. 
• Increased bloating or gas – Post surgery, a feeling or bloating or gas may persist. 
• Vitamin deficiency - Nutrition absorption may be impacted, which may lead to conditions such as anaemia.). This should be discussed and addressed by your doctor and necessary deficiencies will be appropriately replaced 
• Dumping syndrome – The body may not be able to digest sugar and starch properly, which may cause sudden dips in blood pressure. This should be discussed and addressed by your doctor.