Monday, November 1, 2010

Recognize Stomach Cancer Symptoms

It's important to recognize stomach cancer symptoms to get the treatment needed. Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer is not as common in the United States, as it is in other parts of the world. Stomach cancer symptoms tend to go ignored often, because others figure they're suffering from other stomach problems. There are a few different causes of stomach cancer. The most common type of stomach cancer is known as adenocarcinoma.


Stomach cancer can be genetic. If you have family members who have a history of stomach cancer, then you might be at risk. Since signs of stomach cancer usually aren't noticeable until it's advanced, you should get regular checkups from your doctor. Especially if you're past the age of 40. Those past the the age of 40 are more prone to stomach cancer. Those who are at risk of stomach cancer are heavy smokers, heavy drinkers, too much sodium in one's diet, lack of antioxidants in diet, and pernicious anemia. Stomach cancer treatment consists of surgery, usually resulting in losing your stomach.


Instructions


1. Identify possible stomach cancer symptoms. Symptoms of stomach cancer results in loose stool, constant bloating, heartburn, stomach pain, abdominal pain, dark stool, blood in stool, diarrhea and indigestion. Stomach cancer symptoms can be common symptoms of other stomach problems. However, if symptoms continue you should get an appointment with your doctor. It might not be stomach cancer. You might still need treatment if its some other kind of stomach problem.


2. Eat foods high in fiber. Fiber takes harmful toxins out of your body. Dietary fiber is good for your digestive system. Eating good amounts of fiber can help prevent stomach cancer. Foods high in fiber are wheat, corn, raspberries, mustard greens, cauliflower, broccoli, bran, legumes, barley, rye and oats. Eating white bread can increase your chance of cancer. Switch to wheat or rye bread instead.


3. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables contains high amount of antioxidants. Those who don't get enough antioxidants into their diet increase risk of cancer. Specific fruits high in vitamin C should be added to your diet. Strawberries, oranges, lemon, kiwifruit, cantaloupe, grapefruit, watermelon, pineapple, and blueberries. Eat a lot of green leaf vegetables like spinach, broccoli, kale, and swiss chard.


4. Take vitamin E supplements. Vitamin E can help fight off free radical attacks. Vitamin E is a healthy vitamin for digestion, and is anti-cancer. Taking vitamin E regularly can reduce your chance of cancer. Talk to your doctor about vitamin E supplements if you're on prescribed medications.


5. Avoid a lot of alcohol, smoking, and limit saturated fats. Drinking a lot of alcohol, smoking, and eating foods high in saturated fats can lead to stomach cancer, and other forms of cancer. Drink more green tea, since it helps boost the immune system. Replace saturated and trans fats with omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fats, and monounsaturated fats.







Tags: stomach cancer, stomach cancer, cancer symptoms, your doctor, alcohol smoking