Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the esophagus, a tube that connects the throat and stomach. It is a rare but aggressive cancer that is often diagnosed in the later stages, making it difficult to treat.

Early detection is essential for better treatment outcomes. In this article, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer.

1. Difficulty Swallowing

One of the earliest and most common signs of esophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing or dysphagia. This happens due to narrowing of the esophagus or pressure from a tumor.

Initially, people may experience difficulty swallowing solid or dry foods, followed by liquids as the cancer progresses. It can also lead to choking or coughing while eating or drinking.

2. Chest Pain

Chest pain or discomfort in the chest area is another common symptom of esophageal cancer. The pain can be felt behind the breastbone or in the upper abdomen. It can occur during eating or lying down, and may worsen over time.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unintentional weight loss is a red flag for many types of cancers, including esophageal cancer. It can occur due to loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, or cancer cells consuming the body’s energy supply.

Losing more than 10% of body weight in a short period of time without trying to lose weight is a cause for concern and requires medical evaluation.

4. Chronic Cough

Constant coughing that lasts for weeks or months is a symptom that should not be ignored, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or chest pain.

This can be due to irritation of the lung or esophagus by the cancerous tumor. The cough can also be dry or produce mucus or blood.

5. Hoarseness

If a person’s voice becomes unusually harsh or distorted, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer. Hoarseness can occur due to the tumor affecting the nerves that control the voice box (larynx) or the muscles of the throat.

It can also be a symptom of other conditions such as acid reflux or a respiratory infection, but a thorough examination by a doctor is necessary to rule out cancer.

6. Painful Swallowing

As the cancer progresses, swallowing can become more painful, a condition known as odynophagia. This can occur due to inflammation or ulcers in the esophagus caused by the tumor.

People with esophageal cancer may also feel a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest, which can worsen over time.

7. Regurgitation

Regurgitation is a condition where food, liquid, or bile flows back from the stomach into the mouth or throat.

It can occur in people with esophageal cancer due to the narrowing of the esophagus or weakness of the muscle that separates the stomach and esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter). Regurgitation can cause a bitter or sour taste in the mouth, bad breath, and difficulty breathing.

8. Fatigue

Feeling exhausted or sluggish, even after getting adequate rest, is a symptom of many types of cancers, including esophageal cancer.

Fatigue can occur due to the body fighting cancer, malnutrition caused by difficulty swallowing, or the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.

9. Vomiting

Advanced stages of esophageal cancer can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Vomiting can also cause blood to come up, which is a sign of a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

10. Anemia

Anemia occurs when the body has fewer red blood cells than normal, which can cause fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, and other symptoms.

Esophageal cancer can lead to anemia due to blood loss from the cancerous tumor or malnutrition causing nutrient deficiencies.

Conclusion

Esophageal cancer is a rare but deadly disease that requires early diagnosis and treatment for better outcomes. If you experience any of the above symptoms, especially if they persist for more than a few weeks, consult a doctor for a diagnosis.

Early stages of esophageal cancer can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, while advanced stages require palliative care to minimize symptoms.