Bailey McBreen, a 25-year-old nurse from Florida, thought nothing of her frequent burping, dismissing it as a minor issue. However, as the symptom persisted and worsened, she began to experience acid reflux, stomach cramps, and other alarming health problems.
It wasn’t until McBreen’s condition deteriorated significantly that she sought medical attention. Her worst fears were confirmed when doctors diagnosed her with stage 3 colon cancer. The news came as a devastating shock to McBreen and her loved ones.
In retrospect, McBreen realizes that her excessive burping was the first sign of something amiss. “I would burp 5-10 times a day, which wasn’t normal for me,” she recalled. As her health declined, she suffered from crippling pain, loss of appetite, and bowel issues.
McBreen’s medical background prompted her to trust her instincts, leading her to seek immediate hospital care. A CT scan revealed a tumor obstructing her large intestine, explaining her dire symptoms.
The connection between McBreen’s burping and cancer stunned her. “I never thought it could be linked to such a horrible disease,” she admitted. Her oncologist clarified that the burping was likely an early symptom, triggered by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) caused by the tumor.
Following her diagnosis, McBreen underwent emergency surgery to remove the tumor and is currently undergoing chemotherapy.
Now, McBreen urges others to heed their bodies’ warning signs. “If something feels off, don’t ignore it,” she cautioned. Colon cancer, the third most common cancer globally, often remains undetected until its advanced stages.
McBreen’s story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and prompt medical attention. By sharing her experience, she hopes to raise awareness and inspire others to prioritize their health.
As McBreen navigates her treatment journey, her message resonates: listen to your body, and never underestimate the significance of unusual symptoms.
