Gas And Belching: Is It A Sign Of Stomach Cancer?
Experiencing gas and belching is quite common in daily life and usually indicates indigestion. There are many potential causes for these symptoms, and they are not necessarily linked to stomach cancer. It's important not to panic and consider other common reasons such as:
Chronic Gastritis
This includes conditions like chronic superficial gastritis and chronic atrophic gastritis. These types of long-term inflammation in the stomach lining can lead to bloating and frequent burping.
Gastric Or Duodenal Ulcers
In such cases, a gastroscopy is highly recommended to examine the inside of the stomach and small intestine. Additionally, testing for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is advised, as this bacteria is a leading cause of bloating and belching. If detected, treatment typically involves a combination of four medications known as triple or quadruple therapy.
Stomach Cancer
While less common, it's still important to rule out the possibility of gastric cancer. A gastroscopy allows doctors to visually inspect the stomach for any abnormal growths. If a tumor is present, its size, location, and appearance can be assessed during the procedure.
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.