The first sign of stomach cancer may be microscopic internal bleeding that can be detected only by testing for blood in the stool. Signs and symptoms of stomach cancer rarely appear in the early stages, but can include:

• Indigestion and stomach discomfort
• Mild nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating after eating
• Heartburn
• Weakness and fatigue

Symptoms in advanced stages:

• Blood in stools
• Black, tarry stools
• Mild anemia
• Vomiting blood or after meals
• Weight loss
• Persistent and chronic stomach pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)
• Ascites (buildup of fluid in the abdomen)
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

Patients exhibiting these symptoms should consult a physician. The above symptoms may indicate any number of less serious conditions, such as peptic ulcer. A physician will prescribe diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the symptoms.