Cancer is a severe health condition that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, causing them to mutate and spread rapidly. The uncontrolled cell mutation destroys the functions of specific organs where the problem originates. Esophageal cancer develops in the esophageal cavity. It has no cure, so individuals must learn to recognize the signs for prompt diagnosis. Early diagnosis helps initiate the treatment process quickly and better manage the condition.

Difficulty swallowing
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is among the early signs of cancer in the esophageal cavity. When cancer cells multiply rapidly in the esophagus, they block its opening. The entry point becomes narrow, making it difficult to swallow food even after chewing thoroughly. Some people also choke on the foods they eat and complain of morsels getting stuck along the chest region. It is an alarming sign of esophageal cancer that worsens with time.

Heartburn and chest pain
Swallowing problems are often accompanied by a burning sensation in the chest. The burning sensation is triggered due to gastrointestinal acid reflux and is usually felt just behind the breastbone. If cancer or a tumor grows in this region, the resulting chest pain can become chronic. The pain can also worsen when foods and beverages try to pass along the esophagus into the stomach, causing server heartburn-like symptoms. Further, advanced esophageal cancer can put pressure on the chest; many people complain about a crushing sensation that affects their breathing.

Chronic cough
As cancer or the tumor in the esophagus spreads and affects more healthy cells, it causes mucus buildup. Mucus production is the body’s automatic immune response to keep the cells lubricated. As a result of excess mucus, the affected person struggles with bouts of chronic cough. The intensity of the cough varies on the disease’s stage. If a tumor develops where the esophagus and the trachea connect, it can trigger a tracheoesophageal fistula that blocks the airway—another reason for chronic cough. Some people even risk developing pneumonia if cancer spreads to the lungs.

Blood in vomit and stools
Blood in the vomit could indicate cancer’s progression into its advanced stages. When cancer cells mutate and destroy healthy cells inside the esophagus, it triggers bleeding. The blood pools into the stomach and regurgitates when the patient develops nausea or vomiting. The blood also pools into the digestive tract and gets released during bowel movements. Blood in the stools is common as cancer spreads and destroys the esophageal cavity. It is important to note that excessive blood loss increases the risk of anemia or low red blood cell count. So, one must never ignore these symptoms and seek immediate expert consultation to manage the discomfort.

Voice hoarseness
Voice changes could result from many health problems, including esophageal cancer. When the tumor grows and presses against the vocal cords, the resulting hoarseness is quite distinct and easily identifiable. The symptom usually worsens gradually as the disease progresses. Severe cancer can even affect the nerves connected to the vocal cords and increase the risk of laryngeal nerve palsy. As cancer spreads, the affected person may also struggle with pain and other discomforts in the throat. Individuals must get throat symptoms checked early to explore preventive measures and stop cancer from spreading.

Fatigue
A rapid decline in fitness and energy levels could indicate cancer. As mentioned, the cancer cells invading the esophagus make it difficult to swallow foods and beverages. People do not eat well due to pain and discomfort, which, in turn, triggers malnutrition as the body is deprived of necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Patients feel tired and low on energy. This symptom is commonly observed among many people affected with esophageal cancer. Fatigue could also be a side effect of the treatments used to manage the condition.

Esophageal cancer primarily develops in the esophagus but can metastasize, affecting major organs nearby. Many carry the risk of cancer rapidly spreading to the surrounding nerves, causing spine pain or bone pain. The cells can also rapidly mutate and affect the lungs, liver, and brain, resulting in shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal pain, swelling, headaches, or even seizures. Since esophageal cancer has no cure, individuals must visit a professional immediately after noticing the signs and use the recommended treatments to manage their condition.