What are the final stages of stomach cancer?

The final stages of stomach cancer, also known as stage 4 or metastatic stomach cancer, typically involve the cancer spreading to distant parts of the body beyond the stomach. As the cancer progresses to its advanced stages, it can cause a range of symptoms and complications that significantly impact a person's quality of life. Some common signs and symptoms that may occur in the final stages of stomach cancer include:

1. Severe abdominal pain: As the cancer spreads and grows, it can cause increasing pain in the abdomen that may become difficult to manage with medication.
2. Weight loss and malnutrition: Stomach cancer can interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to significant weight loss and malnutrition despite adequate food intake.
3. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): Advanced stomach cancer can obstruct the passage of food through the esophagus, making it challenging and painful to swallow.
4. Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can become more frequent and severe as the cancer progresses, often leading to dehydration and weakness.
5. Fatigue: Cancer-related fatigue is common in advanced stages of stomach cancer and can be debilitating, affecting a person's ability to carry out daily activities.
6. Jaundice: In cases where the cancer spreads to the liver, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) may occur due to impaired liver function.
7. Bleeding: Stomach cancer can cause bleeding in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or anemia.
8. Metastasis to other organs: As stomach cancer advances, it can spread to organs such as the liver, lungs, bones, or brain, leading to additional symptoms depending on the affected organ.

It's essential for individuals with advanced stomach cancer to receive comprehensive supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. This may include palliative treatments to relieve pain and discomfort, nutritional support, psychological support, and assistance with end-of-life care planning. Additionally, hospice care may be appropriate for individuals nearing the end of life to provide comfort and support for both the patient and their loved ones.