Stomach Cancer: What to Accept from a Doctor Visit?
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, occurs when malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. It is a serious condition that offers goes undetected in it’s early stages due to subtle symptoms that can be easily be mistaken for other gastrointestinal issues. If you suspect you may have stomach cancer or have been referred to a specialist, particularly a medical oncologist in Ahmedabad, it's essential to know what to expect during your visit.
Initial Consultation with a Medical Oncologist:
The first step in your journey is the initial consultation with a medical oncologist. If you’re seeing a specialist in stomach cancer in Ahmedadbad, this consultation is particularly crucial. The doctor will begin by reviewing your medical history in detail. You should be prepared to discuss any symptoms you’ve have been experiencing, no matter how minor they may seem. Common symptoms of stomach cancer include persistent stomach pain, difficulty in swallowing, nausea, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
During this consultation, the oncologist will perform a physical examination. They will check for signs of abdominal swelling, tenderness, or masses that could indicate the presence of tumor. Additionally, the doctor may feel for an enlarged lymph nodes in your neck and other areas, which can suggest that the cancer has spread.
Diagnostic Tests:
If the oncologist suspects stomach cancer based on your symptoms and physical examination, they will recommend a series of diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests are essential to determine the presence, location, and extent of the cancer.
- Endoscopy: An endoscopy is a common procedure used to diagnose stomach cancer. During an endoscopy a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted into your stomach for any abnormal areas. If something suspicious is found, the doctor may take a biopsy- a small tissue sample for further examination.
- Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from the suspicious area in the stomach. This sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to check for the presence of cancer cells. A biopsy is the most definitive way to diagnose stomach cancer.
- Imaging Test: Imaging tests, such as CT scans, PET scans, and X-rays are used to get a detailed picture of the inside of your body. These test help the oncologist determine the size of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
- Blood Test: Blood test can provide additional information about your overall health and can sometimes detect specific substances, known as tumor markers, that are produced by cancer cell. While blood test alone cannot diagnose stomach cancer, they can offer valuable clues that, along with other tests contribute to a complete diagnosis.
Staging and Treatment Planning
Once the stomach cancer is confirmed, the next step is to determine the stage of cancer. Staging involves assessing how far the cancer has grown and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. The stage cancer is a critical factor in deciding the most appropriate plan.
- Stage I: Early-Stage Cancer: At this stage, the cancer is confined to the innermost layer of the stomach lining and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or to other organs.
- Stage II: Localized Spread: Here, the cancer has invaded deeper layers of the stomach lining and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage III: Regional Spread: Stage III cancer has penetrated all layers of the stomach and may have spread to nearby organs and more lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: Advanced Cancer: In this stage, the cancer has spread to distant organ, such as liver, lungs, or bones. This is the most advanced stage of stomach cancer.
Treatment Options:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the first line of treatment for stomach cancer, particularly if the cancer is detected early. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor along with any affected lymph nodes. Depending on the extent of the cancer, the surgeon may remove part of all your stomach- a procedure known as gastrectomy. Recovery from surgery may vary, and you need to stay in the hospital for several days post-operation.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cell. In cases where surgery is not possible, chemotherapy may be primary treatment. Chemotherapy is typically given in cycle, with each treatment session followed by rest period. Side effects my include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and fatigue.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It is often used with combination with chemotherapy to increase its effectiveness. Radiation can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to destroy any residual cancer cells. Common side effects of radiation therapy include skin irritation, fatigue, and digestive issues.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a more precise treatment options that involves drugs specifically designed to target cancer cell while minimizing damaged to normal cell. This approach is often used when the cancer has certain genetic mutations that make it more susceptible to these drugs.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is an innovative treatment that helps your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It is typically used in cases of advanced stomach cancer or when other treatment have not been effective. Immunotherapy can cause side effects such as fatigue, skin rash, and flu-like symptoms.
Follow-Up Care:
After completing treatment for stomach cancer, follow-up care is essential to monitor your recovery and check for any signs of recurrence. Your oncologist will schedule regular check-ups, which may include physical exams, blood tests, and imaging scans. These visits are crucial for catching any potential issues early and ensuring that any recurrent cancer is treated promptly.
Supportive Care and Quality of Life
Dealing with stomach cancer can be physically and emotionally challenging. It's important to have a strong support system in place, including family, friends, and healthcare professionals who can offer encouragement and assistance. Many patients find it beneficial to join support groups where they can connect with others going through similar experiences.
In addition to medical treatment, focusing on lifestyle changes can improve your overall health and reduce the risk of cancer returning. Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol can all contribute to better outcomes.
A diagnosis of stomach cancer can be daunting, but with the right medical care and support, many people are able to manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life. If you are in Ahmedabad and suspect stomach cancer, or have been diagnosed, seeking the expertise of a medical oncologist, particularly a specialist in stomach cancer, is essential. They will guide you through each step of the process, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond, helping you make informed decisions about your health.