Having a mass or lump in your stomach can be concerning. However, there are many possible causes, both benign and serious. Let’s go over the potential causes and when you should see a doctor.
What are some common causes of a stomach mass?
Here are some of the most common causes of a mass or lump in the stomach area:
- Hernia – This occurs when an organ pushes through a weak spot or tear in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. For example, a hiatal hernia happens when part of your stomach bulges through your diaphragm into your chest cavity.
- Lipoma – These are benign soft tissue tumors made up of fat tissue. They often form just under the skin but can sometimes occur in the abdominal cavity.
- Cyst – Fluid-filled sacs can develop in various places, including the stomach. Two types are gastric duplication cysts which form in the stomach wall, and mesenteric cysts in the abdominal cavity.
- Abscess – This is a collection of pus that forms a lump. Intra-abdominal abscesses can develop in the stomach area, often after surgery or an abdominal infection.
- Fibroids – Benign muscle tumors that most often occur in the uterus but sometimes grow in the intestinal tract.
What serious conditions can cause a stomach mass?
While many causes of a stomach mass are benign, some serious medical conditions can also lead to a lump or fullness in the stomach. These include:
- Stomach cancer – This may take the form of a tumor or thickening of the stomach wall. Risk increases with age.
- Lymphoma – Cancer that originates in the lymphatic system may spread to lymph nodes or organs like the stomach.
- GIST – Gastrointestinal stromal tumors start in specialized cells in the wall of the stomach. Most are benign but some can become cancerous.
- Pancreatitis – Inflammation of the pancreas, which sits just behind the stomach, can cause a mass-like fullness.
- Gallbladder disease – An inflamed or infected gallbladder may create a lump-like feeling under the ribs on the right side.
When should you see a doctor?
You should make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of the following:
- A new lump or mass in your stomach
- A lump that is growing or changing
- Unexplained fullness in your abdomen that doesn’t go away
- Pain or tenderness in your stomach
- Problems swallowing
- Unintended weight loss
While many stomach masses are harmless, it’s important to get an evaluation to identify the cause. This is especially true if you have any symptoms that are persistent or worsening.
How is a stomach mass diagnosed?
If you have symptoms of a stomach mass, your doctor will take your medical history and perform a physical exam. Tests used to diagnose a stomach mass can include:
- Imaging tests – Such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the mass
- Upper endoscopy – A tiny camera on a flexible tube is inserted through the mouth to examine the stomach lining
- Biopsy – Removing a small sample of cells or tissue for testing to confirm the diagnosis
- Blood tests – To look for tumor markers or other signs of cancer or infection
Based on your test results, your doctor can identify if the mass is benign or concerning. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause.
What are the treatment options for a stomach mass?
Treatment options for a stomach mass include:
- Surgery – Often needed to remove cancerous growths, large cysts, or hernias.
- Medication – Such as antibiotics to treat an infection or abscess.
- Dietary changes – Your doctor may recommend a special diet if the mass makes it difficult to digest food properly.
- Observation – For harmless masses like lipomas, your doctor may recommend monitoring it over time.
Again, the appropriate treatment depends on the specific type and cause of your stomach mass. Be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations.
Can stomach masses be prevented?
There’s no sure way to prevent growths from developing in the stomach. But you may be able to lower your risk for certain types of masses with these strategies:
- Maintain a healthy weight – Obesity increases the risk of some gastric cancers.
- Eat a high-fiber diet – It may help prevent gastrointestinal cancers.
- Get treated for Helicobacter pylori – This stomach bacteria is linked to ulcers and cancer.
- Avoid smoking – It raises gastric cancer risk.
Of course, there are some stomach masses that can’t be prevented through lifestyle measures. But following healthy habits may help reduce your risks.
When should you seek emergency care?
Most stomach masses do not require emergency care. However, you should go to the ER or call 911 if you experience:
- Severe or worsening stomach pain
- Fever and vomiting
- Blood in your vomit or stools
- Fainting or dizziness
- Inability to eat or drink without pain or vomiting
These symptoms can indicate a serious problem like a ruptured stomach cyst, intestinal obstruction, or ulcer perforation. Sudden, severe stomach pain that comes on quickly also warrants an urgent trip to the ER.
Key takeaways
- Stomach masses have many possible causes, ranging from benign growths to cancers.
- See a doctor promptly if you notice a new lump in your stomach or have any alarming symptoms.
- Based on your symptoms and test results, your doctor will recommend appropriate treatment.
- While some stomach masses can’t be prevented, you may be able to reduce your risk through lifestyle measures.
- Seek emergency care if you have signs of a ruptured mass or severe stomach pain.
A mass or fullness in the stomach often turns out to be harmless. But it’s important to have it evaluated, especially if you notice any red flag symptoms. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in many cases. Don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you notice any unusual lumps, swelling, or sensations in your stomach.