Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. According to the American Cancer Society, esophageal cancer is the sixth most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide.

What are the warning signs of esophageal cancer?

Esophageal cancer often doesn’t cause any symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows, it can cause a range of symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore. Here are some common warning signs of esophageal cancer:.

1. Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is one of the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer. You may feel like you have a lump in your throat, or food may get stuck in your throat or chest.

This is known as dysphagia, and it can be a sign that the cancer is blocking the esophagus.

2. Chronic coughing or hoarseness

If you have a chronic cough or hoarseness that lasts more than a few weeks, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer. This is because the cancer can affect the nerve that controls the vocal cords, leading to changes in your voice or a persistent cough.

3. Chest pain or discomfort

Esophageal cancer can also cause chest pain or discomfort, especially when you swallow. This pain can be a sharp, burning sensation that feels like heartburn, but it may also be a dull ache that lasts for hours.

4. Weight loss

Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of many different health conditions, including esophageal cancer. If you’re losing weight without trying, it’s important to see your doctor to find out what’s causing it.

5. Fatigue

Esophageal cancer can also cause fatigue, which is a feeling of extreme tiredness or weakness that doesn’t improve with rest. Fatigue can be a sign that the cancer is spreading or that your body is working hard to fight the cancer.

6. Acid reflux

Acid reflux is a common condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus.

While acid reflux isn’t usually a sign of esophageal cancer, it can cause inflammation and damage to the esophagus that may increase your risk of developing the disease.

7. Vomiting

If you’re vomiting frequently or have nausea that lasts more than a few days, it may be a sign of esophageal cancer. This is because the cancer can cause a blockage in the esophagus, making it difficult for food or liquids to pass through.

8. Indigestion

Indigestion is a common condition that occurs when you have difficulty digesting food. While indigestion isn’t usually a sign of esophageal cancer, it can be a symptom of the disease if it persists or gets worse over time.

9. Hiccups

While hiccups are usually nothing to worry about, persistent hiccups can be a sign of esophageal cancer. This is because the cancer can irritate the nerve that controls the diaphragm, leading to a persistent case of hiccups.

10. Anemia

Anemia is a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body.

While anemia isn’t usually a sign of esophageal cancer, it can be a symptom of the disease if you have bleeding in the esophagus or stomach.

When should you see a doctor?

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

While these symptoms can be caused by a range of health conditions, it’s best to get checked out to rule out esophageal cancer or catch it early.

Your doctor may perform a physical examination, order blood tests or imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans, or perform a biopsy to determine if you have cancer.

If you are diagnosed with esophageal cancer, your doctor will create a treatment plan that may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these therapies.

Conclusion

Esophageal cancer is a serious disease that can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. However, if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, don’t ignore them.

Seeing a doctor early on can help catch the cancer before it spreads, improving your chances of successful treatment.