KEY POINTS

  • Stomach cancer would manifest itself through a lot of symptoms
  • There is one uncommon symptom however that you may neglect
  • This has something to do with your hiccups

Cancer presents a lot of symptoms. There are common symptoms, especially for those cancers that are prevalent and there are also uncommon symptoms. These symptoms could appear as usual body processes, which you may neglect and shrug off as a common occurrence. You might be surprised to know that having frequent hiccups is among the signs of one type of cancer.

Stomach Cancer

Macmillan UK stated that having frequent hiccups could signal stomach cancer. This is one type of cancer that starts at the tiny mucus-producing cells that line the tummy. It cannot exactly be pinpointed how stomach cancer could cause hiccups. However, what health experts believe is that when you suffer from stomach cancer, your stomach would stop working. This would then cause the stomach to become bloated and extended.

Although hiccups aren’t exactly made as a barometer of having stomach cancer, it would still be best to watch out for this symptom. So if previously you had experienced hiccups, but it was not that frequent, and you suddenly start to have these frequent bouts of hiccups, then better see a doctor.

More Definitive Symptoms

There are other well-known symptoms of stomach cancer and these would include losing weight without even making an effort to do so, feeling sick or simply having difficulty swallowing. Another telltale sign of stomach cancer is a lump at the top of the tummy area.

stomach cancer symptoms hiccups
An illustration of a man holding his stomach due to discomfort. derneuemann - Pixabay

You may also notice heartburn or acid reflux, burping a lot, indigestion, loss of appetite or feeling very full quickly whenever you eat. Of course, there’s also pain at the top of your stomach area and that feeling of tiredness or having no energy at all.

If you feel any of the above symptoms, and or those frequent hiccups, it would be best to see your doctor. This will ensure that you get the proper diagnosis. Like what health experts recommend, early detection of cancer would also mean early treatment and intervention.

Always remember it would be best for you to live a healthy lifestyle and avoid smoking and other toxic activities. Also, make sure that you don’t live a sedentary lifestyle.