Stomach Cancer and Stomach Ulcers: Understanding the Differences

Stomach cancer and stomach ulcers are two different conditions. They can have different causes, but the two conditions often have similar symptoms, although neither causes symptoms in its early stages. Various treatments are available for both diseases, which require timely care. Early treatment is important for both conditions, so anyone experiencing similar symptoms should consult a specialist promptly. 

What Is Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer is a condition in which cells in the stomach wall begin to grow abnormally. There are many types of stomach cancer. Almost all stomach cancers are adenocarcinomas. Adenocarcinomas are cancers that begin to grow in the glands lining organs. 

Stomach cancer is also described using the term gastritis cancer as an alternative name.

What Is a Stomach Ulcer?

A stomach ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine, connecting the stomach to the rest of the small intestine. 

Stomach ulcers are also described as peptic ulcers, duodenal ulcers or peptic ulcer disease.

How Do the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer and Stomach Ulcers Differ?

Stomach cancer and stomach ulcers generally have no symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, however, they can be similar. Symptoms shared by stomach cancer and stomach ulcers include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Heartburn
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling bloated after eating
• Indigestion and stomach discomfort
• Blood in the stool

However, as either condition progresses, the symptoms may become different. The following differing symptoms can help distinguish the two conditions:

• Symptoms of stomach cancer:
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Abdominal inflammation (ascites), or fluid accumulation in the abdomen
• Symptoms of a stomach ulcer:
  • Black or tarry stools
  • Vomiting blood
  • Vomit resembling coffee grounds
  • Persistent, sharp or severe abdominal pain (Unlike stomach cancer, stomach ulcers cause mild or burning abdominal pain that occurs intermittently, usually at night or on an empty stomach; it worsens while eating or disappears after a meal.)
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting
  • A rapid pulse or other signs of shock
  • Changes in Symptoms or Worsening Symptoms

Stomach cancer generally does not cause symptoms until it has spread to other parts of the body. Likewise, people with stomach ulcers may not develop symptoms until the ulcer causes complications. Although complications of stomach ulcers are uncommon, they can be serious.

When either condition begins to cause symptoms, it is important to consult a specialist promptly. Medical tests can establish the diagnosis and allow appropriate treatment to begin for either condition. 

Stomach Cancer and Stomach Ulcers Have Different Causes

Although their symptoms may be similar, stomach cancer and stomach ulcers have different causes. The different causes behind these similar symptoms are outlined below.

Causes of Stomach Cancer

Changes in how stomach cells function can lead to stomach cancer. In general, stomach cancer may involve changes in how cells grow and divide. Stomach cancer mostly affects people aged 65 and older. Other factors that increase a person's risk include:

• A previous Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
• Being male
• A history of stomach inflammation
• Smoking
• A family history of stomach cancer
• Eating large amounts of salted, smoked or pickled foods

Causes of Stomach Ulcers

• H. pylori infections: H. pylori infections are common and usually harmless. Sometimes, however, they can cause stomach ulcers. Scientists cannot yet fully explain why these bacteria affect some people more than others.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs are medicines used for pain, fever or swelling. Long-term NSAID use can cause stomach ulcers. Common NSAIDs include aspirin and ibuprofen as examples.

Both causes can allow stomach acid to damage the lining of the stomach or duodenum, leading to ulcers. Stress and spicy foods do not cause stomach ulcers, but they can worsen symptoms.

Different Treatments

Treatment for Stomach Cancer

Various treatments are available for stomach cancer. The most appropriate treatment is determined by assessing:

• The stage of the stomach cancer
• The person's overall health
• The person's preferences

Specialists may recommend a combination of treatments. These may include:

• Endoscopic mucosal resection: In this procedure, surgeons use a long, flexible instrument called an endoscope to remove cancer from the wall of the digestive tract.
• Surgery: An operation to remove all or part of the stomach or to help manage symptoms of the cancer.
• Radiation therapy (radiotherapy): High-energy radiation is used to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth.
• Chemotherapy: Treatment with medicines that destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth.
• Targeted therapy: A treatment using medicines or other substances to identify and attack specific cancer cells. 
• Immunotherapy: Treatment with medicines that help the immune system fight cancer.

Treatment for Stomach Ulcers

People generally seek medical help when their stomach ulcers worsen. The medicines or treatments specialists recommend to promote healing may vary according to the ulcer. 

Treatment generally aims to reduce stomach acid or kill H. pylori bacteria. Acid-reducing medicines include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 receptor blockers, also known as H2 receptor antagonists. 

Surgery may be needed if a stomach ulcer does not heal or causes complications.

Summary of the Differences Between Stomach Cancer and Stomach Ulcers

Stomach cancer and stomach ulcers may cause similar symptoms but have different causes and treatments. Neither may cause symptoms in the early stages, while their symptoms can resemble one another as they progress. Because of this similarity, people should consult a specialist without delay when symptoms begin.