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6 alarming signs of esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the inner layers of the esophagus, the tube that allows food to move into the digestive system. The symptoms won’t be detectable in the early stages of this condition. As cancer slowly grows outward, it spreads through the esophageal wall, reaching the lymph nodes, the blood vessels in the chest, and other nearby organs. Keep reading to learn about the warning signs of this condition.

Pain in the chest
One of the most common signs of esophageal cancer is a pain in the middle region of the chest. The pain can radiate to just below the throat, between the shoulders, or behind the breastbone. This discomfort is similar to feeling pressure or a burning sensation inside the chest. However, this symptom is often ignored since it is similar to those caused by certain benign health conditions such as heartburn.

Trouble swallowing
Due to the growth of the cancerous cells, the wall of the esophagus becomes narrow. It makes it difficult for the food to pass through the esophagus. As a result, a person will experience trouble swallowing food. This symptom is relatively mild in the beginning. But as cancer progresses, it worsens over time. It may feel like food is stuck in the throat or chest and can even lead to choking.

Changes in eating habits
As esophageal cancer grows, it becomes more and more difficult to swallow food due to the narrowing of the esophagus. Therefore, a person may, without conscious control, start changing their eating habits. For example, they will start taking smaller bites and chew more slowly. They will prefer softer foods and avoid foods such as bread and meat that have higher chances of getting stuck in the throat.

Bleeding in the esophagus
With the growth of esophageal cancer cells and the esophagus becoming narrow, the food passing through may have an abrasive effect against the walls of the esophagus. It can lead to bleeding. This blood passes through the digestive system, leading to dark-colored stool.

Anemia
The blood loss due to the bleeding in the esophagus may become more intense over time. It can lead to low red blood cell count in the body. As a result, anemia will develop with time, causing chronic fatigue and weakness.

Low appetite
A person with esophageal cancer will start avoiding eating enough due to difficulty swallowing. Eventually, they will switch to the liquid form of most foods, impacting their overall ability to eat full meals. It, along with fatigue and tiredness, will lead to low appetite.

Bone pain
If esophageal cancer spreads to other body parts, such as the bones, it may trigger bone pain or aches. It usually happens in the advanced stages of the condition.

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