Stomach cancer: Recognise the signs early

Persistent indigestion, acidity and stomach discomfort may sometimes signal something more serious. Doctors explain the warning signs, risk factors and the importance of early detection.

Observed globally in November, Stomach Cancer Awareness Month highlights the importance of recognising the symptoms, understanding the risk factors and encouraging early detection of gastric cancer. Indigestion, acidity and stomach discomfort are often dismissed as routine digestive problems. While it is important not to associate every ailment with a life-threatening condition, persistent symptoms should not be ignored, as they could signal something serious.

CE speaks to doctors about warning signs, risk factors and the importance of early detection, urging people not to dismiss persistent digestive problems as routine acidity or indigestion.

“Persistent or recurrent symptoms should not be ignored, as they can sometimes be early manifestations of stomach cancer. Certain conditions, particularly chronic Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) infection and longstanding atrophic gastritis, are associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer,” shares Dr MA Suboor Shaherose, senior consultant medical and hemato oncologist, Renova Century Hospitals. He further adds, “The important thing is to recognise warning signs such as unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, persistent abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, recurrent vomiting, anaemia or gastrointestinal bleeding.”

Dr Suboor explains that cancers of the lower stomach (distal stomach or antrum) have traditionally been common in several Asian populations. However, the distribution varies across regions, with cancers occurring near the gastro-oesophageal junction also increasingly recognised. More common in men, stomach cancer is among the five leading cancers affecting Indian males. According to GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates, India recorded approximately 64,600 new cases of stomach cancer and 57,700 related deaths that year.

Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and palliative care are among the major treatment options available. However, the choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health and other clinical factors. “Survival largely depends on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. Stomach cancer is treatable, especially when we detect it early. Unfortunately, many patients come to us at an advanced stage because they initially mistake the symptoms for common digestive problems,” notes Dr Rahul Reddy Levaka, senior surgical oncologist, CARE Hospitals.

Debunking, some common myths surrounding stomach cancer, Dr Rahul says,
“Myth: Stomach cancer affects only older people. Many people believe that stomach cancer is restricted to older age groups. However, younger patients can also develop the disease.
Myth: Cancer always causes severe stomach pain. In its early stages, stomach cancer may not cause severe pain. Symptoms can be as subtle as indigestion, bloating or poor appetite.
Myth: Not smoking or drinking means you are safe. Avoiding tobacco and alcohol does not eliminate the risk. Factors such as H. pylori infection, family history and dietary habits can also contribute to the development of stomach cancer.”

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for food, medicines, exercises and so on.   

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Cold, Allergy Or Toxic Air? Why Your Nose May Be Sniffling As AQI Crosses 450

With the sudden change in weather, a constantly running nose, repeated sneezing or nasal congestion may make you think you are coming down with a cold. However, as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 450, toxic air could be another reason behind these symptoms.

While a common cold, allergic rhinitis and pollution-related irritation may leave you with a stuffy or runny nose, the pattern of symptoms, how long they last and what triggers them can help distinguish between the three. The tricky part is that pollution-related irritation can feel similar to a common cold or an allergy, making it difficult to identify the cause. So, how can you tell whether your runny nose is being triggered by a viral infection, an allergic reaction or the air you breathe?

“A blocked or runny nose is something many people blame on a change in weather or the latest cold going around. The same symptom can come from very different sources," Dr. Rahul Garg, Head of Department and Senior Consultant, ENT and Head-Neck Surgery, explains why recognising these differences matters and when nasal symptoms need medical attention.

Is Your Runny Nose A Sign Of A Common Cold?

A common cold is usually caused by a viral infection and may begin with a scratchy or mildly sore throat before progressing to sneezing, a runny nose and nasal congestion. Some people also experience a mild fever, body aches, cough or general fatigue.

According to Dr Garg, a cold generally develops gradually and tends to resolve within around seven days, although some symptoms, particularly a cough, may last longer. “Among 40,000 patients in India experiencing nasal symptoms, more than half screened positive for allergic rhinitis, indicating that persistent sneezing, a runny nose or nasal congestion may not always be due to a common cold," notes Dr. Garg. Symptoms that return in a particular season or after contact with a specific trigger often point toward allergy.

What you can do: Rest, drink adequate fluids and use simple measures to ease congestion. Most uncomplicated colds improve without specific treatment. Antibiotics do not work against viral infections and should not be taken unless prescribed for a bacterial infection.

If your nose starts running whenever you clean the house, enter a dusty room or spend time around pets, an allergy could be responsible.

Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system reacts to otherwise harmless substances such as pollen, dust mites, mould spores or pet dander. Common symptoms include repeated bouts of sneezing, a watery nasal discharge, congestion and itching in the nose, throat or eyes.

Unlike a cold, allergies generally do not cause fever. They may also persist for weeks or return whenever you encounter a particular trigger.

Dr Garg points to Indian patient screening data involving around 40,000 people with nasal symptoms, in which more than half screened positive for allergic rhinitis. This highlights why persistent sneezing and congestion should not automatically be dismissed as repeated episodes of the common cold.

What you can do: Identify and limit exposure to the suspected trigger. Depending on the cause, this may involve reducing dust accumulation, washing bedding regularly, controlling indoor mould or limiting exposure to pollen. A doctor can help establish whether the symptoms are allergy-related and recommend appropriate treatment.

Can Air Pollution Make Your Nose Run Or Feel Blocked?

Not every runny nose is caused by an infection or an allergy. Sometimes, the air you breathe can irritate the nasal passages.

Smoke, smog, fine particulate matter and chemical fumes can inflame the lining of the nose, causing dryness, a burning sensation, sneezing and congestion. These symptoms may become more noticeable after spending time outdoors, particularly on days when air quality is poor.

esearch published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has linked higher exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with more severe nasal congestion, irritation and sneezing among people with rhinitis.

Dr Garg explains that pollution-related nasal irritation often improves when exposure to polluted air is reduced. Unlike an allergy, it may not be linked to one specific substance that triggers an immune response.

What you can do: Check local air-quality levels and limit prolonged outdoor exposure when pollution is high. Keep windows closed during periods of heavy pollution, avoid areas with smoke and dust, and use a well-fitting mask when necessary.

How Can You Protect Your Nasal Passages From Irritation?

A few everyday measures can help keep nasal passages comfortable, particularly during periods of poor air quality.

– Use saline nasal spray: It can help rinse away dust and other airborne irritants while keeping the nasal passages moist.

– Stay hydrated: Adequate fluid intake helps prevent excessive dryness.

– Improve indoor air quality: Reduce dust accumulation, avoid indoor smoking and consider suitable air filtration where needed.

– Limit outdoor exposure: Avoid prolonged outdoor activity when pollution levels are particularly high.

– Avoid cigarette smoke: Tobacco smoke can further irritate the nasal lining and worsen congestion.

When Should You See A Doctor?

Most uncomplicated colds and episodes of pollution-related irritation settle with simple care. However, persistent, recurring or worsening symptoms should not be ignored.

Dr Garg advises seeking medical evaluation if nasal symptoms do not improve, repeatedly return or become progressively worse. A high fever, facial pain, breathing difficulty or symptoms that worsen after initially getting better also warrant medical attention.

A blocked nose may seem like a minor inconvenience, but understanding what triggers it can help you choose the right approach. Whether it is a passing viral infection, an allergy or the air around you, the first step is to look beyond the symptom and identify its cause.

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for food, medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs