Overview
Esophageal cancer grows in the food pipe that carries food from the throat to the stomach, and it is common in parts of India, linked to tobacco, alcohol, very hot drinks and long-standing acid reflux. Its hallmark symptom is food gradually sticking or becoming hard to swallow. Because difficulty swallowing tends to appear only once the cancer has narrowed the pipe, any new or progressive trouble swallowing must be checked promptly rather than adjusted to by eating softer food.
Symptoms
- Difficulty swallowing that slowly worsens
- A feeling of food sticking in the chest or throat
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain or discomfort behind the breastbone on swallowing
- Persistent indigestion, heartburn or hoarseness
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly for any new or worsening difficulty swallowing, or food sticking, especially with weight loss.
Causes
Tobacco and alcohol use, very hot beverages, long-standing acid reflux, and a diet low in fruit and vegetables.