An early diagnosis of cancer leads to better treatment outcomes. According to the National Cancer Institute, early stomach cancer may not cause symptoms. Uterine cancer, also called endometrial cancer, usually occurs around or after menopause and, according to the American Cancer Society, may reach an advanced stage before symptoms are seen. There are no screening tests for stomach or uterine cancers, and both diseases present with symptoms that may mimic other diseases leading to a delay in diagnosis.
Pain and Pressure
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen or pelvis may be an early symptom of stomach or uterine cancer. Fullness after eating even a small meal is symptomatic of multiple diseases, including stomach cancer. Sharp, dull or burning pains may be localized to the stomach or pelvic area. Vague discomfort may be a symptom of either disease. Generalized pain in the lower back and legs may interfere with exercise, climbing stairs and work. Pain during intercourse may occur.
Bleeding
Bleeding is an early symptom of both stomach and uterine cancer. With stomach cancer, blood in the vomit and blood in the bowel movement are common symptoms. In uterine cancer, bleeding or other types of abnormal discharges from the vagina may occur. Bleeding after menopause is not normal and should be reported to the doctor. If periods have not stopped, irregular bleeding between periods or excessive or lengthy periods should also be reported.
Issues Related to Food
Stomach cancer can cause symptoms that feel like an ulcer or indigestion. Burping, acid reflux or heartburn, and difficulty swallowing are common. Discomfort does not go away with antacids or other treatments. A loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss can happen with either disease. Nausea or a feeling of being sick to the stomach can occur, as well.
Bladder and Bowel Changes
With uterine cancer, a woman may experience problems with urination. Difficulty starting the stream of urine or painful urination should be reported to the doctor. Stools may be black and tarry in consistency in cases of stomach cancer.
Changes in the Abdomen
With either stomach or uterine cancer, bloating or swelling may occur in the abdominal area. Fluid buildup increases abdominal size and clothes get tighter.
Fatigue
Feelings of fatigue can come with anemia due to blood loss in either disease. Not being able to maintain a usual schedule or the need to rest or sleep more than normal are symptomatic of both stomach and uterine cancers.
If Not Detected Early
As the cancer progresses, a lump or swelling in the area of the stomach or uterus may be felt. In some advanced cases, the mass may be seen when lying on the back. If stomach and uterine cancers are not detected early, the diseases may spread throughout the body. When cancers spread to the liver and cause jaundice, the skin and whites of the eyes may appear yellow. Fractures may occur when cancer metastasizes or spreads to the bone. Lung metastases may cause shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Brain metastasis may cause mental confusion and headaches.
