Can GERD with low appetite and anxiety be stomach cancer?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had issues with GERD and recently have had some appetite issues within the past two weeks. I can still eat, but the drive is not there. It could be because of my anxiety. I have no vomiting or diarrhea and no blood. No trouble swallowing. Just some simple indigestion now, but nothing like it was before I started on Protonix. I had an abdominal CT scan (available in my chart) which showed no visible pathology and no lymphadenopathy that was of concern. Soon I have my appointment with my gastroenterologist. My anxiety is through the roof because I have been reading about stomach cancer and believe I have it now. Do you believe it is good to wait a couple of months for the appointment?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed your case history in detail. You have GERD with the recent loss of appetite without any other significant symptoms.

As you mentioned in your history, you had Augmentin for your tonsillitis recently, and you even discontinued this because of stomach upset. Your loss of appetite is likely due to drug-induced gastritis. I do not think so. With such new onset of symptoms, a clear history of antibiotic use, and a prior normal CT scan, gastric cancer is very unlikely. Whenever you search your symptoms on the internet, by default, it will include stomach cancer, like if you search for persistent headaches, it may increase the risk of brain tumors. There is no medical specialist filter while searching online. This will increase your anxiety.

For us, we think of stomach cancer when,

1) Relatively prolonged symptoms, not resolving despite prokinetics (a medicine used to reduce appetite).

2) Weight loss unintentionally.

3) Family history of gastric cancer.

4) Blood in vomiting or black stools.

5) Lump on examination of the abdomen or abnormal CT scan findings.

I do not think you have any of the above. I would recommend you take some prokinetics like simple Domperidone 10 mg half an hour before each meal. Otherwise, Protonix (Pantoprazole Sodium)is good acid suppression medicine too. You can also add Gaviscon (Sodium Alginate and Sodium Bicarbonate) antacids syrup 10 ml post meals. Give your stomach some time to respond to these medications.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Avoid unnecessary stress and internet searches.

Wishing you very good health.

Kind regards.