(ORDO NEWS) — This tumor accounts for one in eight cancer deaths worldwide. Here are five early symptoms not to be missed.
Esophageal cancer is the most common type of malignant tumor of the gastrointestinal tract. Every year, 16 thousand new cases are registered worldwide, in our country the prevalence of this disease is constantly growing: in 2017, the absolute number of cases was 8220 cases – twice as many as in 2010.
Men get esophageal cancer 3.5 times more often than women, the peak incidence occurs at the age of 50-59 years. We tell you what early symptoms of esophageal cancer you need to pay attention to and immediately consult a doctor.
Painful or difficult swallowing
The esophagus is a kind of tube that connects the mouth and stomach. If a tumor develops in it, it becomes difficult for patients to swallow food.
As doctors say, the first difficulties the sick experience, as a rule, with swallowing solid food – meat or bread. Pain may also be felt. If you do not see a doctor and do not take any measures, you may develop difficulty swallowing soft foods and even liquids. Don’t wait, see your doctor right away!
Worsening of heartburn and acid reflux
Many of us experience heartburn from time to time, some of us have had to deal with acid reflux, when stomach acid and even food particles move from the stomach back up the esophagus. But if these problems become more frequent or worse, it may be a symptom of esophageal cancer. In any case, you should consult a doctor.
Cough after eating
This is especially true for people diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition that can develop into esophageal cancer. Coughing fits, especially after eating “heavy” food, can be a symptom of developing cancer, be sure to consult a doctor.
Weight loss
Unreasonable weight loss often accompanies many forms of cancer, including cancer of the esophagus: often people who find it difficult to swallow some food simply stop eating it.
Or they try to eat less in order to experience less unpleasant sensations in the stomach, and because of this they lose weight. If you lose weight without making any effort, see a doctor, it can be very serious.
Severe fatigue
Another “universal” symptom of cancer is feeling very tired. If you start to get tired faster, if everyday activities take too much energy – do not put off a visit to the doctor. The sooner the disease is detected, the higher the chances of a successful remission.
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