Symptom 9: Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Gastrointestinal bleeding, often shortened to GI bleeding, is a tell-tale sign that something’s amiss in the digestive tract. In the context of SRCC, it’s not just a symptom, but often a clarion call that the disease is advancing and causing tangible damage.
The manifestations of GI bleeding can vary. Sometimes, it’s overt – bright red blood in vomit or stools. At other times, it’s more covert, presenting as dark, tarry stools (melena) or coffee-ground like vomit. These latter signs are indicative of blood that’s been in the stomach for a while, getting partially digested and thus altering in appearance.
In SRCC, the tumors can erode the lining of the digestive tract, leading to bleeding. Additionally, as these tumors grow, they can rupture blood vessels, leading to more significant bleeding. The stomach, given its acidic environment, further exacerbates the situation, as the acid can wear away at these tender, tumor-affected areas, increasing the risk of a bleed.
GI bleeding isn’t a symptom to be brushed under the rug. SRCC patients experiencing this need to seek medical attention pronto. Treatment might involve endoscopy to locate and stop the bleed, medications to reduce stomach acid, and possibly even surgery if the bleeding is severe. An immediate response can not only curb the bleed but can also offer insights into the cancer’s progression, enabling timely interventions. (9)
