Problems like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain are common. People often ignore them, thinking they’re constipation, indigestion, or an eating disorder. However, if bloating persists, your stomach grows larger, your appetite decreases, or you experience unintended weight loss, it’s important to consult a doctor. In some cases, these signs may be related to peritoneal cancer.
However, these symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have cancer. Liver disease, infection, and digestive problems can also cause these symptoms. A timely medical examination is essential to determine the underlying cause.
According to Cancer Research UK, the peritoneum is a thin membrane lining the abdomen that covers the inner wall of the abdomen and also covers the surface of several abdominal organs, such as the intestines and liver. A small amount of fluid exists between its two layers, which helps the organs glide smoothly against each other.
When the cells in this lining undergo abnormal changes and grow uncontrollably, certain types of cancer can develop. According to MayoClinic, this is called primary peritoneal cancer. This is a rare cancer. Furthermore, cancer that originated in other parts of the abdomen can spread to the peritoneum. For example, cancer cells from the ovaries, stomach, or intestines can affect this lining. Therefore, peritoneal cancer doesn’t always mean the cancer originated in the peritoneum. Its symptoms can be similar to those of ovarian cancer. Doctors use tests to determine where the cancer originated and how far it has spread.
Temporary bloating after eating can be normal. However, if the bloating persists, doesn’t subside, or the abdominal circumference increases over a few weeks, the cause should be investigated.
There can be several causes of bloating in peritoneal cancer. The spread of tumors or cancer cells within the abdomen can put pressure on surrounding organs. Additionally, abnormal fluid accumulation in the abdomen can also cause abdominal enlargement. Some people experience a feeling of heaviness, distension, or pressure in the abdomen.
According to the National Cancer Institute, ovarian, fallopian tube, and peritoneal cancers can cause symptoms such as abdominal or pelvis pain, bloating, pressure, gas, bloating, and constipation. These symptoms can also occur in other conditions.
Note that abdominal bloating alone is not necessarily a sign of cancer. Gas, constipation, food sensitivities, and other illnesses can also cause it. However, if bloating is accompanied by symptoms such as persistent pain, loss of appetite, feeling full quickly, or weight loss, it’s best not to delay testing.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, early or less obvious symptoms can be difficult to distinguish between peritoneal cancer and common digestive problems. Gas, constipation, indigestion, abdominal pain, and bloating are also common symptoms of many common diseases. Therefore, some people may dismiss persistent symptoms as a simple digestive problem.
Pay special attention to these signs:
Abdominal bloating that persists or gradually increases.
Repeated abdominal pain or pressure.
Feeling full after eating a small amount.
Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss.
Persistent changes in eating habits, such as constipation or diarrhea.
Feeling of heaviness in the abdomen along with frequent urination.
Having even one of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate cancer. However, if several symptoms occur simultaneously, recur repeatedly, or worsen over time, it is wise to consult a doctor. Tests such as ultrasound, blood tests, ascites fluid tests, and biopsy may be used to diagnose peritoneal cancer.
Stomach bloating, persistent pain, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss are symptoms that should not be ignored for long. In some cases, they may be related to peritoneal cancer, but these symptoms can also be seen in many other diseases. Therefore, instead of concluding that you have cancer on your own, consult a doctor. If the size of the stomach is continuously increasing or several symptoms are appearing simultaneously, then it is best to seek medical advice immediately.