When cancer of the oesophagus first develops, it rarely causes any symptoms. This is because the tumour will initially be very small. It is only when the cancer starts to become larger and more advanced that symptoms tend to develop.
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
The most common symptom of cancer of the oesophagus is difficulty swallowing, a condition which is technically known as dysphagia. However, you will not normally experience any difficulty swallowing until the tumour has grown large enough to narrow your oesophagus to about half its normal width.
When the tumour narrows your oesophagus, it makes it more difficult for food to pass down it. When you swallow, it can feel as though food is stuck in your gullet, as the muscles of the oesophagus try to push it past the tumour.
You may find that you have to chew your food more thoroughly and carefully, or that you can only eat soft foods. If the tumour continues to grow, even liquids can be difficult to swallow.
Other symptoms of oesophageal cancer are listed below.
Unintentional weight loss
A tumour in the oesophagus can stop food passing down to the stomach, so you may find that you start to lose weight. Any form of cancer can also cause you to lose weight, because the illness changes the way your body processes nutrients.
Coughing
You may find that you cough more, especially when swallowing.
Vomiting
You may vomit shortly after eating. This is because food in your oesophagus can sometimes become lodged by the tumour. If this is the case, your body will make you vomit to clear your oesophagus. Sometimes you may also vomit blood. This is because tumours can occasionally bleed. You will not normally vomit blood until the cancer is advanced.
Hoarseness
You may notice your throat is sore, and your voice is hoarse.
Indigestion
If your tumour forms near the entrance of the stomach, it can sometimes stop the valve (cardiac sphincter) between the stomach and the oesophagus from working properly. This means that acid from the stomach can sometimes travel up into the oesophagus, causing indigestion.
Heartburn
If you get occasional heartburn, then it is not usually cause for concern. Heartburn is very rarely caused by cancer, and you will not have to seek medical attention if you only have it occasionally. However, if you frequently get heartburn, or find it very painful, then make sure you see your GP straight away. Do not ignore your symptoms.
Chest, back and neck pain
Pain is often worse when you swallow, or when you have an attack of indigestion.
It is important to remember that many of these symptoms, particularly indigestion, are not normally caused by cancer.
However, if you notice that your symptoms are persistent (last for a long time or keep coming back) then speak to your GP straight away. You should also see your GP if your symptoms appear very suddenly, or if they are causing you significant pain or discomfort.
