Early Warning Signs of Esophageal Cancer

Early Warning Signs of Esophageal Cancer

Changes in the body that may indicate early signs of esophageal cancer include:

• Difficulty swallowing (Dysphagia): Early stages of esophageal cancer may manifest as slight discomfort or a foreign body sensation when swallowing food. As the disease progresses, difficulty in swallowing solid food may occur, eventually leading to trouble swallowing liquids.
• Painful swallowing: Pain behind the sternum or below the xiphoid process during swallowing, especially when consuming dry, hard, or coarse foods, may be a symptom of esophageal cancer.
• Weight loss: Due to difficulty swallowing, patients may experience inadequate nutritional intake, leading to weight loss.
• Chest or back pain: Esophageal cancer may invade surrounding tissues, causing chest or back pain.
• Coughing or hoarseness: When esophageal cancer invades the trachea or recurrent laryngeal nerve, it may cause coughing or hoarseness.
• Food regurgitation or vomiting: Esophageal cancer can cause food regurgitation or vomiting, especially after eating.
• Persistent chest tightness or fullness: Esophageal cancer may lead to discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the chest.