Symptoms of Cancer of the Esophagus

Esophageal cancers are difficult to detect and are often not found until they have progressed to nearby lymph nodes or organs. As a group, esophageal cancers are on the rise because the risk factors are more prevalent.
There may be no early signs or symptoms of esophageal cancer because, in the early stages, the cancer is small and confined to the superficial layers of the esophagus. Thus, it does not cause pain or other symptoms.
With a lack of symptoms, the patient's family and personal medical histories provide critically important information in the early detection of esophageal cancers. Risk factors detected may warrant examining your esophagus.
The major risk factors include a history of chronic acid reflux or heartburn, which can lead to Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition. Other risk factors are generated from long-term alcohol consumption, smoking and other tobacco use, and occupational exposure to inhaled chemicals such as silica dust or asbestos. Obesity is also a risk factor.
Certain genetic disorders also can cause esophageal cancer, such as tylosis, a congenital thickening of the skin of the palms and soles.
Later stage signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer include difficulty swallowing, weight loss, pain in the chest, the throat, or upper back, chronic cough, hoarseness or coughing up blood. These symptoms are serious and require immediate medical attention.
Preventing esophageal cancer may be as simple as treating heartburn. Acid reflux is considered a lifestyle disease, caused by stress, smoking, alcohol consumption, along with a diet high in refined sugar and fat, with too few fruits and vegetables.
Researchers have found a correlation linking nutrient-deficient diets to esophageal cancer. Other researchers have also discovered that drinking large quantities of soft drinks is also a risk factor.
Green tea may demonstrate a protective effect against esophageal cancer, as long as it's not too hot when consumed. On the other hand, coffee, including decaffeinated varieties, increases the risk of acid reflux.
If you or anyone in your family has a history of acid reflux, ulcers, obesity, along with smoking or alcohol consumption, getting regular esophageal checkups and changing your lifestyle are critically important in preventing cancer or catching it early.