Is It an Ulcer or Stomach Cancer? How to Tell the Difference
Stomach pain can be tricky. One day it’s a dull ache, another day it’s sharp and persistent. You might wonder is it just an ulcer, or could it be something more serious like stomach cancer? The symptoms can be surprisingly similar, which makes it hard to tell without proper testing. Knowing the difference matters because early diagnosis can change everything. Let’s break it down so you can understand the signs, what they might mean, and when it’s time to get checked.
What Are Stomach Ulcers?
A stomach ulcer, also called a peptic ulcer, is a sore in the lining of your stomach or small intestine.
Causes and Risk Factors
- H. pylori infection – a common type of bacteria
- Frequent use of painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen
- Smoking and alcohol – both can irritate the stomach lining
Stress and diet don’t usually cause ulcers, but they can make symptoms worse
Common Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers
- Burning or gnawing pain in the stomach area
- Pain that appears a few hours after eating or at night
- Relief after eating or taking antacids
- Occasional bloating, nausea, or burping
What Is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, starts when abnormal cells grow in the stomach lining. It can develop slowly over time, often starting with small changes in the stomach’s cells.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Family history of stomach cancer
- Diets high in smoked, pickled, or salted foods
- Chronic gastritis or long-term untreated ulcers
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
Early and Later Symptoms
-Early signs can be vague:
- Ongoing indigestion
- Mild stomach discomfort
- Feeling full after small meals
– Later signs can be more serious:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Ongoing nausea and fatigue
- Loss of appetite
Ulcer vs. Stomach Cancer: The Key Differences
– Symptom Overlaps
Both can cause stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, and loss of appetite. This is why self-diagnosis often leads people astray.
– Signs More Likely to Be an Ulcer
- Pain improves after eating or taking antacids
- Pain follows a predictable pattern with meals
– Signs More Likely to Be Cancer
- Pain that gets worse over time and doesn’t ease with food or medication
- Persistent vomiting or blood in vomit/stool
- Unexplained weight loss and constant fatigue
When to See a Doctor Immediately
Seek medical attention if you notice:
- Severe or worsening stomach pain
- Black or tarry stools
- Vomiting blood
- Sudden weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
How Doctors Diagnose the Difference
– Endoscopy and Biopsy
A thin tube with a camera is passed into your stomach to check for ulcers, growths, or other problems. A small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken to check for cancer cells.
– Imaging Tests
CT scans and ultrasounds can help detect abnormal growths or spread of disease.
– Lab Tests
Blood tests, stool tests, and H. pylori testing can give clues about the cause of symptoms.
Why Early Detection Saves Lives
Catching the problem early means more treatment options and better recovery chances. Waiting until symptoms become severe can make treatment more difficult.
Treatment Approaches
For Ulcers
- Antibiotics if H. pylori is present
- Medications to reduce stomach acid
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
For Stomach Cancer
- Surgery to remove affected areas
- Chemotherapy or targeted medicines
- Supportive treatments to manage symptoms
Your Health Comes First — Book Your Appointment Now
Stomach discomfort should never be ignored especially if it’s persistent or getting worse. The only way to know for sure whether it’s an ulcer or stomach cancer is through proper testing.
If you’re in Pune and have ongoing symptoms like stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, or blood in stool, don’t delay. Book a consultation with Dr. Sumit Shah at Prolife Cancer Centre for stomach cancer diagnosis and treatment.
FAQs
1. Can ulcers turn into stomach cancer?
Most ulcers don’t, but untreated ulcers caused by long-term H. pylori infection can increase the risk.
2. How quickly can stomach cancer develop?
It often grows slowly at first but can spread faster once it reaches later stages.
3. Can I tell the difference without seeing a doctor?
No. Symptoms overlap too much to make an accurate judgment at home.
4. Does stomach cancer always cause pain?
Not always. Some people have no pain but still develop the disease.