Esophageal & Stomach Cancer – Overview
An Overview of Stomach and Esophageal Cancer
Cancer begins with a malfunctioning of the natural life cycle of healthy cells. The cells in your body are constantly growing and dividing to keep your tissues healthy; old cells die off and are replaced by new ones. Cancer occurs when cells do not die off but continue dividing and multiplying; the resulting mass is called a tumor and over time, it can disrupt the healthy operation of many different organs and tissues. Patients in Phoenix seeking esophageal and stomach cancer treatment may be seeking surgical solutions as part of a care plan outlined by their providers. Our Phoenix cancer center is a leading provider of advanced care options for patients who have been diagnosed with many different types of cancer.
Stomach Cancer Basics
Cancer is described in terms of the cells that make up the primary tumor mass. Different types of cells are found in each organ and sometimes organs have multiple types of cell each doing a different job. Under normal circumstances, the cells that make up the tissue of the stomach and esophagus keep working to support digestion, elimination, and metabolism. Therefore, when these structures begin exhibiting abnormal behavior, patients will experience a range of symptoms that can include:
- Indigestion and vomiting
- Blood in vomit
- Blood in stool
- Feeling full even after small meals
- Abdominal pain
- Vague pains above the belly button
Some symptoms of stomach cancer are easily ignored and may not present patients with any cause for alarm; because stomach cancer can be slow to develop, many people are not diagnosed until the cancer is in an advanced stage. It is important for people who have a family history of stomach cancer, or who have had stomach cancer before, to report these symptoms to a doctor. Further screening may be necessary.
Expertise That Supports Your Healing
Speaking with cancer treatment experts is the best way to fight back against a cancer diagnosis. We can help you discover care solutions suited for your personal needs; contact Phoenix CyberKnife and Radiation Oncology Center today.