Cancer Detection

Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer

Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer

  • Esophageal cancer, unfortunately, does not typically cause noticeable symptoms until the disease has progressed to a late stage.
  • The most common symptom is difficulty swallowing, or a feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest.
  • Patients may also experience unintended weight loss, because problems swallowing prevent them from eating enough food.
  • Sometimes, patients experience pain or a burning sensation in the mid-chest region.
  • In people with advanced esophageal cancer, symptoms may also include hoarseness, chronic coughing or hiccupping, and blood in the stool.
  • If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your physician. The symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer,but it is important to see your doctor for an examination.