Cancer in the esophagus, also referred to as esophageal cancer, is a disease that affects approximately 12,000 to 18,000 people in the United States each year, according to health experts with The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. The esophagus is the long, thin tube that connects the back of the throat to the stomach. People who develop signs of cancer in the esophagus should consult a physician for further evaluation and care.
Difficulty Swallowing
One of the most common signs of cancer in the esophagus is difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, warn medical professionals with the American Cancer Society. Cancer cell growth along the esophagus can inflame and narrow this thin tube. When this occurs, it can be difficult for ingested food to pass through the esophagus normally. Affected people can experience an uncomfortable sensation that feels like something is stuck within the throat. Esophageal cancer can also cause sore throat pain in certain people, which can exacerbate dysphagia symptoms. Depending upon the extent of cancer cell growth in the esophagus, certain people may only be able to consume liquid foods.
Chest Pain
People with cancer in the esophagus can develop sensations of pain within the chest as a sign of this disease, explains the University of California San Francisco Medical Center. Chest pain symptoms can feel like heartburn and may radiate into the back or between the shoulder blades. Sudden or severe chest pain should be immediately reported to a medical professional as this sign of cancer in the esophagus is also a sign of a heart attack.
Hoarseness or Cough
Cancer cell growth along the esophagus can irritate a person's vocal box, or larynx, which lies at the back of the throat. Voice box inflammation can cause vocal hoarseness as a sign of esophageal cancer in people, report National Cancer Institute medical experts. Affected people can speak with a raspy or unusually quiet voice. Additional signs of esophageal cancer, such as cough, can also arise in certain people. Persistent or severe cough or hoarseness should be discussed with a physician to ensure those affected receive appropriate treatment.
Weight Loss
Approximately 50 percent of people with cancer in the esophagus experience unintended weight loss as a sign of this disease, warns the American Cancer Society. Typically, weight loss occurs due to swallowing difficulties, which interfere with a person's ability to consume solid food products. People who experience severe weight loss for unknown reasons should talk with a physician as soon as possible.
References
- American Cancer Society: How is Cancer of the Esophagus Diagnosed?
- National Cancer Institute: Esophageal Cancer Treatment
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Esophageal Cancer - Signs and Symptoms
- MayoClinic.com: Esophageal Cancer - Symptoms
- The Society of Thoracic Surgeons - Esophageal Cancer
