What methods can you use to self-diagnose stomach cancer?

The methods of self-diagnosis for gastric cancer mainly include observing symptoms and undergoing medical examinations. The early symptoms of gastric cancer are often not obvious, so medical examinations such as gastroscopy and CT are more accurate.

1. Observe symptoms

The early symptoms of stomach cancer may be similar to those of common stomach problems, such as persistent stomach pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, weight loss, etc. If you have these symptoms and they last for a long time, you need to pay attention to them. Although these symptoms do not necessarily mean stomach cancer, they are signals from the body that prompt you to further check.

2. Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is the most direct way to diagnose gastric cancer. Through gastroscopy, doctors can clearly observe the situation inside the stomach. If abnormal ulcers or masses are found, doctors will take biopsies for pathological analysis. Although this method may make people feel uncomfortable, the emergence of painless gastroscopy has greatly reduced the discomfort during the examination.

3. Imaging examination

For those who do not want to undergo gastroscopy directly, CT or barium meal examination can be selected. CT scan can provide detailed images of the stomach and help find potential lesions. Barium meal examination is to take X-rays after swallowing barium to show the outline and structure of the stomach. These examinations can be used as preliminary screening methods, but if there is a suspected lesion, gastroscopy is still needed for further confirmation.

4. Family history and risk factors

If there is a family history of gastric cancer, or if the individual has a history of chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer, etc., the risk will increase. Such people should undergo regular gastroscopy. Smoking, drinking, improper diet and other lifestyle factors are also risk factors for gastric cancer. It is recommended to improve lifestyle habits to reduce the risk.

5. Regular physical examination

Regular health check-ups are an important measure to prevent gastric cancer. For people over 40 years old, especially those with a history of gastric disease or family history, it is recommended to have a gastroscopy once a year. Early detection and early treatment can significantly improve the cure rate.

Knowing these self-testing methods can help detect stomach cancer early, but the most important thing is to have regular professional medical examinations. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and paying attention to diet and rest can also effectively reduce the risk of stomach cancer. I hope these suggestions can help you, remember to pay attention to your health!