6 symptoms of esophageal cancer to pay attention to
Esophageal cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the esophagus. The mutation usually begins in the cells that line the inside of the esophagus and could develop anywhere in this tube. Various treatments and natural remedies could help in managing the condition. However, one must visit a healthcare professional to diagnose cancer early and ensure the best treatment results. Understanding the warning signs of the condition is essential for early diagnosis and management.
Trouble swallowing
Sometimes people may have dysphagia, which is trouble with swallowing. And these symptoms may often be misdiagnosed as other health conditions, such as eosinophilic esophagitis – an inflammation of the esophagus caused by a specific white blood cell. However, difficulty with swallowing might also occur due to the growth of cancer cells in the esophagus. The trouble might be mild at first but worsen as cancer grows and the opening inside the esophagus gets smaller.
Pain in the chest
Pain or discomfort in the middle region or a burning, pressurized-like sensation on the chest is often associated with conditions like heartburn. But discomfort in the chest may also be a symptom of the development of esophageal cancer. Therefore, someone who experiences this sign should get an expert’s opinion immediately.
Hoarseness
A hoarse, scratchy voice or a cough that occurs occasionally could indicate a mild health condition that may go away in a few days. But if these symptoms persist, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer and must be checked by a healthcare expert immediately. The change in voice happens when the tumor squeezes up against one’s vocal cords.
Vomiting
As a tumor narrows the passage in the esophagus, it could become harder to push the food through, so when an individual eats a meal, they may vomit because the food gets stuck in the esophagus.
Pain in the bones
Since esophageal cancer could spread to areas beyond the esophagus, an individual’s bones may get affected. As a result, the person may experience unusual pains or aches in the affected bones. Esophageal cancer may also spread to the surrounding nerves, leading to spine pain and even nerve paralysis.
Unexplained body mass loss
The formation of cancer cells in the esophagus could cause pain in the throat when trying to swallow food. As a result, an individual may reduce their food intake to avoid the pain. The results would be body mass loss without trying. Esophageal cancer may also lower one’s appetite, which is unhealthy for the body and must be treated immediately.
