Finding a lump or mass in your stomach can be concerning. However, there are many possible causes – some harmless and others more serious. Here is some information to help you understand what a lump in the stomach may mean and when you should see a doctor.
What are some common causes of a stomach lump?
Some of the most common causes of a lump in the stomach include:
- Hernia – Hernias occur when there is a weak spot or tear in the abdominal muscles. This allows the intestines or fatty tissue to push through, creating a bulge or lump.
- Lipoma – Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) fat cell tumors. They often feel soft and rubbery.
- Cyst – Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in organs or tissues. Complex cysts may have both fluid and solid components.
- Abscess – An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses typically feel tender and may be warm to the touch.
- Tumor – Both cancerous and benign tumors can develop in organs in the abdomen and appear as masses.
- Enlarged organ – The spleen, liver, kidneys or other organs can sometimes become enlarged, creating a fullness or lump.
- Swollen lymph nodes – Lymph nodes can become inflamed or enlarged in response to infection, inflammation, or cancer.
In women, ovarian cysts, fibroids, and pregnancy can also lead to abdominal lumps. In men, a lump may be caused by a hernia or swollen testicle.
What are the symptoms associated with a stomach lump?
Symptoms that may occur with an abdominal lump include:
- Pain or tenderness
- Feeling of fullness or bloating
- Changes in bowel movements
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
However, sometimes a lump may not cause any noticeable symptoms at all.
When should I see a doctor about a stomach lump?
You should see a doctor promptly if you notice any new, unexplained lump in your abdomen. While it may end up being benign, it needs to be evaluated to determine the underlying cause. This is especially important if the lump is accompanied by any of the concerning symptoms listed above.
Red flag symptoms that require urgent evaluation include:
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain
- High fever
- Vomiting or vomiting blood
- Blood in the stool
- Marked weakness or fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness or fainting
Seeking prompt medical attention for high-risk symptoms can help identify serious conditions like infections, internal bleeding, or tumors early when they are most treatable.
What tests may be done to diagnose a stomach lump?
If you have a lump in your stomach, your doctor will take your full medical history and perform a physical exam. They may order some of the following tests to help determine the cause:
- Imaging tests – CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasound can provide detailed views of organs and tissues to identify masses or abnormalities.
- Blood tests – Blood work can spot indicators of infection, inflammation, liver issues, or other clues.
- Endoscopy – A tiny camera on a flexible tube can be used to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach and intestines.
- Biopsy – Removing a small sample of cells or tissue for analysis can diagnose cancer and other conditions.
- Laparoscopy – Surgery with small incisions and a camera allows a surgeon to examine and biopsy organs inside the abdomen.
What are the possible treatments for an abdominal lump?
Treatment completely depends on the cause of the lump. Some options may include:
- Watchful waiting – Non-dangerous lumps like cysts or lipomas may just be monitored at routine visits.
- Medications – Antibiotics for infections, or other drugs to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- Drainage – Draining abscesses or cysts using a needle and syringe.
- Surgery – Operations like hernia repair, tumor removal, biopsy procedures, etc.
- Chemotherapy or radiation – For cancerous tumors.
When is a stomach lump an emergency?
A stomach lump can represent a medical emergency if it is accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, vomiting, fever, or other concerning signs. Emergency conditions associated with an abdominal mass include:
- Appendicitis – The appendix becomes severely inflamed and may rupture, causing intense pain, nausea, and fever.
- Strangulated hernia – Part of the intestine becomes trapped in the hernia, loses blood supply, and begins to die, leading to extreme pain.
- Ovarian torsion – An ovarian cyst or mass twists on its stalk, cutting off blood flow. This causes sudden, excruciating lower abdominal pain.
- Tumor rupture or bleeding – Bleeding from a cancerous tumor can be life-threatening.
- Perforated viscus – Ulcers or injuries allow stomach contents to spill into the abdominal cavity, creating severe inflammation.
Medical emergencies require immediate emergency care to prevent serious complications. Urgent surgery may be needed to stop bleeding or infection and repair damage.
How can I reduce my risk of developing a concerning stomach lump?
While some lump causes like tumors are not preventable, you may be able to lower your risk by:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a balanced, fiber-rich diet
- Minimizing red and processed meats
- Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B and HPV
- Not smoking tobacco
- Practicing safe sex
- Using sun protection
- Avoiding excess alcohol
- Seeing your doctor for regular checkups and cancer screenings
Being aware of your own body and any new changes is also important for identifying stomach lumps early.
When to see a doctor
In summary, it’s important to make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any new lump, mass or swelling in your abdomen. Sudden severe pain, high fever, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms along with a lump require prompt emergency care.
While it’s unlikely that an abdominal lump is cancer or life-threatening illness, only your doctor can diagnose the cause and ensure proper treatment. Prompt evaluation and treatment provides you with the best outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a cancerous stomach lump feel like?
A cancerous stomach lump may feel firm, hard, or immobile when pressed. It may be irregularly shaped, large, or growing in size. Pain, nausea, and poor appetite often accompany cancerous masses.
Can stress cause a stomach lump?
While stress itself doesn’t directly cause a lump, it can lead to behaviors that create abdominal problems. Stress eating, smoking, and drinking excess alcohol can contribute to conditions like hernias, fatty liver, and pancreatitis.
Will an ultrasound show stomach lumps?
Yes, an abdominal ultrasound is an excellent way to visualize organs, tissues, cysts, tumors and other masses in the stomach and pelvis. It may be used as an initial test for an unknown abdominal lump.
Can gas cause a stomach lump?
In some cases, excessive gas from conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or swallowing air can accumulate in the intestines and create bloating or a visible lump. Passing gas and bowel movements typically relieve this harmless lump.
Is a hard lump in the stomach serious?
A hard lump can be caused by both benign and more serious conditions. While alarming, it’s important not to panic and see a doctor for an evaluation. Many hard masses end up being curable conditions like fibroids, benign tumors, or abscesses.
The Bottom Line
Discovering an abdominal lump can be unsettling. While many lumps are benign, some can represent more serious illness. Being evaluated promptly improves chances for a good outcome. Seek emergency care if you have severe pain or high-risk symptoms. Otherwise, call your doctor to schedule an appointment to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.