Symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor but often include:
- Abdominal Pain: This is the most common symptom and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.
- Bleeding: GISTs can cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as blood in the stool (which may appear black and tarry) or vomiting blood.
- Fatigue: This can result from anemia caused by chronic bleeding.
- Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms can occur if the tumor obstructs the gastrointestinal tract.
- Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss is a common symptom of many types of cancer, including GIST.
- Early Satiety: Feeling full after eating only a small amount of food.
- Abdominal Mass: In some cases, a mass may be felt in the abdomen.
Many GISTS are slow-growing and may not produce symptoms until they are advanced. If you persistently experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult your healthcare provider, as they can also be caused by other conditions. Your healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, order diagnostic tests to determine the cause of these symptoms. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve prognosis. At GW Cancer Center, you’ll be seen by doctors and surgeons who rank among the top experts in the Washington, DC, region.
