Symptoms and Complications
The symptoms of esophageal cancer generally don't begin to show until the tumor has progressed. They include:
- chest pain (radiating towards the back)
- fatigue
- hoarseness or coughing (when not explained by other causes such as a cold) - a rare initial symptom
- pain when swallowing
- persistent heartburn
- progressive difficulty in swallowing, starting with solids
- weight loss
While these symptoms can be signs of other difficulties, it's important to get them checked if they persist.
One of the most obvious problems associated with this type of cancer is difficulty swallowing. As the tumor gets larger, swallowing firm food becomes impossible and eventually only fluids can get by. After surgery where part of the esophagus is removed, swallowing may be hard for a time but should improve as healing progresses.
A second problem that arises is weight loss due to the problems associated with swallowing. Consulting a dietitian in order to maintain a good nutritional status is an important step in treating esophageal cancer. Poor nutrition can slow the healing process.
Finally, the cancer can spread to the rest of the body, most commonly the lungs and liver.
Complications can arise from the treatment as well as from the cancer, especially if the cancer has spread.