Esophageal Cancer Symptoms

Esophageal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms when it first begins. Symptoms often develop as the tumor grows and begins interfering with swallowing or affecting surrounding tissues. One of the most common symptoms is difficulty swallowing, also called dysphagia.

At first, you may notice that solid foods are harder to swallow or seem to get stuck. As the tumor becomes larger, swallowing softer foods and eventually liquids may become difficult.

What are the first signs of esophageal cancer?

Symptoms vary from person to person. Common signs include:

Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is one of the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer. You may notice:

• Food seems to stick in your throat or chest.

• Solid foods are becoming harder to swallow.

• You need to chew food more thoroughly.

• You take smaller bites than you used to.

• You avoid foods such as meat or bread.

• You need liquids to help food go down.

• Swallowing gradually becomes more difficult.

Because these changes can happen gradually, some people unconsciously change their eating habits before realizing that swallowing has become a problem.

Unintended weight loss

Difficulty eating can cause significant weight loss. Cancer itself can also affect how the body uses energy and contribute to loss of weight and muscle.

Chest pain or discomfort

Some people experience pressure, burning, aching, or discomfort behind the breastbone. Pain may occur while swallowing or at other times.

Painful swallowing

Pain when swallowing is called odynophagia. It may occur when food or liquids pass over an irritated or narrowed area of the esophagus.

Heartburn or indigestion

New or worsening heartburn, reflux, or indigestion can occur. These symptoms are extremely common and are usually caused by conditions other than cancer. However, persistent or changing symptoms should be discussed with your doctor.

Hoarseness or chronic cough

A tumor may sometimes affect structures or nerves near the esophagus. This can cause:

• Persistent hoarseness

• Chronic coughing

• Coughing while eating or drinking

Bleeding and anemia

Esophageal tumors can sometimes bleed. Slow blood loss may cause anemia, which can lead to:

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• Dizziness

• Shortness of breath

• Pale skin

More noticeable bleeding may cause vomiting of blood or black, tarry stools.

When should you see a doctor?

Many symptoms of esophageal cancer can be caused by noncancerous conditions. However, symptoms that are new, persistent, or getting worse should be evaluated. Progressive difficulty swallowing is particularly important to report promptly.