Stomach cancer grows quietly, so early clues feel like everyday indigestion. Most people notice changes only after the tumor is large or has spread.

Stomach pain is the first hint. It feels like a dull, persistent ache or burning just above the belly button and doesn’t go away with antacids.

Fullness shows up early. You feel stuffed after only a few bites, or the stomach feels heavy even when you haven’t eaten.

Weight loss is common. Clothes feel looser, yet you haven’t changed your diet.

Nausea or vomiting may occur. Food comes back up, sometimes with blood that looks like coffee grounds.

Black, tarry stools appear when the tumor bleeds. The stool smells foul and sticks to the toilet bowl.

Late signs include vomiting blood, yellow skin (jaundice), or a hard lump you can feel—an alarm that the cancer has spread.