Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This type of cancer can occur in different parts of the esophagus and can cause a range of symptoms.

While some people are diagnosed with esophageal cancer at advanced stages, early detection can improve the chances of survival. If you experience any signs or symptoms of esophageal cancer, get checked out by a doctor immediately.

Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is one of the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer.

If you have trouble swallowing food or liquids, feel like something is stuck in your throat, or experience pain or discomfort while swallowing, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer. The difficulty swallowing may progress over time and you may start to experience more severe symptoms, such as coughing or choking when trying to swallow.

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them and get checked out by a doctor immediately.

Unintentional Weight Loss

If you experience unintentional weight loss without trying to lose weight through diet or exercise, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer.

As the cancer grows, it can make it difficult to swallow food or cause an obstruction that prevents food from getting to the stomach, resulting in weight loss. Unintentional weight loss can be a serious symptom and requires medical attention.

Persistent Acid Reflux or Heartburn

Acid reflux or heartburn is a common symptom that most people experience from time to time. However, if you experience persistent or chronic acid reflux or heartburn, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer.

This is because the acid from the stomach can damage the delicate lining of the esophagus and increase the risk of cancer. If you experience persistent acid reflux or heartburn, talk to your doctor to find out if further testing is needed.

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is another symptom of esophageal cancer. If you experience pain or discomfort in your chest or back, it could be a sign of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body.

Chest pain or discomfort can also be a sign of other conditions, so it’s important to get checked out by a doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Hoarseness or Chronic Cough

Hoarseness or a chronic cough that lasts for more than two weeks can be a sign of esophageal cancer. The cancer can irritate the vocal cords and cause changes in the voice or a persistent cough.

If you experience these symptoms, talk to your doctor to determine the cause and find out if further testing is needed.

Vomiting or Nausea

Esophageal cancer can cause vomiting or nausea, particularly after eating. This can be a sign that the cancer is blocking the esophagus or preventing food from reaching the stomach.

If you experience vomiting or nausea on a regular basis, get checked out by a doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Black or Bloody Stools

If you notice black or bloody stools, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer. The cancer can cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to black or bloody stools.

While there are other conditions that can cause this symptom, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms and receive appropriate treatment.

Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes. It can be a sign of esophageal cancer that has spread to the liver or bile ducts.

If you experience jaundice, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of many conditions, including esophageal cancer. If you experience fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest, it could be a sign of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body or the body fighting the cancer.

If you experience persistent fatigue, get checked out by a doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Chest Infection

People with esophageal cancer are more likely to develop chest infections, such as pneumonia. This is because the cancer can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

If you experience persistent chest infections, get checked out by a doctor to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.

Get Checked Out Now

If you experience any of the symptoms of esophageal cancer, don’t wait to get checked out by a doctor. It’s important to receive appropriate testing and treatment as soon as possible to improve your chances of survival.

Early detection is key to treating esophageal cancer, so don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.