health
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.