Esophageal cancer: Know these early symptoms of the disease!

Esophageal cancer is a cancer that occurs in the esophagus, the food pipe that runs between the throat and the stomach.

|Last Updated: Feb 21, 2017, 10:52 PM IST|Source: Bureau

Esophageal cancer: Know these early symptoms of the disease!

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New Delhi: Esophageal cancer is a cancer that occurs in the esophagus, the food pipe that runs between the throat and the stomach.

Also known as the cancer of the food pipe, the symptoms of this disease can occur without any underlying disease.

So, one should consult their doctor if any of the symptoms occur for more than two weeks as early diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.

Here are some early symptoms of esophageal cancer which we all should know:

Heaviness in the chest

One might experience pressure or heaviness in the chest region, when the food gets stuck in the food pipe. It is because the cancerous cells multiply in the food pipe to form a lump, which can block the passage of food.

Difficult to swallow

One of the most common symptoms of this disease is difficult to swallow. While swallowing the food you might experience pain in the form of a burning sensation or might feel food sticking to the throat or chest, causing difficulty in swallowing it.

Vomiting blood

It can also cause nausea and vomiting due to the blockage of the food pipe by the cancerous cells.

Weight loss

People suffering from esophageal cancer experience a drastic weight loss, as there is a loss of appetite due to indigestion and pain/difficulty in swallowing. So, one should not ignore a sudden loss in weight as it might indicate cancer.