In cases of more extensive resection, the patient may have to eat more frequent, smaller meals, reduce the sugar content and increase the fat and protein content of the food. Even after a total gastrectomy, the patient may still be able to eat, but may need to make more radical changes, including not drinking with meals. These symptoms may include diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and dizziness. Depending on the extent of the resection and the overall health of the patients, these side effects may lessen or disappear over time. Surgery is the first choice of treatments for gastric cancer.
Experts disagree on the value of using other therapies in combination with or instead of surgery.
Doctors have been seeking improved survival rates by using chemotherapy, radiation, and biological therapies in conjunction with surgery. Studies of such combinations have yielded inconsistent results. There are a number of drugs known to have the ability to kill cancer cells. When they are given to a cancer patient, it is known as chemotherapy. Doctors may prescribe chemotherapy alone, or in combination with other treatments.