7 Early Warning Signs of Oesophageal Cancer, According to an Onco-Robotic Surgeon

Oesophageal cancer often hides behind common symptoms, such as heartburn, a sore throat, or minor digestive discomfort, that people shrug off. But, as Dr Surender Kumar Dabas, Chairman, Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Centre and Onco‑Robotic Surgeries, Manipal Hospitals, warns, these could be red flags signalling something far more serious.

What Is Oesophageal Cancer?

Oesophageal cancer originates in the lining of the oesophagus, the muscular tube that connects your throat to your stomach. It’s dangerous because the early stages show few signs. By the time symptoms appear, the condition often advances.

Warning Signs Of Oesophageal Cancer

Here are early symptoms of oesophageal cancer that Dr Dabas emphasises should prompt immediate medical attention:

• Persistent sore throat
• Hoarse or changing voice
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Burning chest pain or acid reflux
• Food stickiness in the throat
• Unexpected weight loss
• Vomiting blood or chest pressure

“What seems like harmless reflux or a gradual change in voice may be an early warning of a silent and potentially fatal disease,” Dr Dabas cautions.

Don't Miss: Gastroparesis vs IBS: Expert Explains Key Differences, Symptoms And Treatments

Risk Factors of Oesophageal Cancer

Several conditions can increase the likelihood of developing oesophageal cancer:

• Chronic acid reflux (GERD): Long-term acid irritation can lead to precancerous changes.
• Smoking and alcohol use: These substances are known irritants and carcinogens.
• Overweight: Extra abdominal pressure worsens reflux and damage.
• Poor diet: Limited intake of fruits and vegetables, and frequent consumption of very hot drinks, may elevate risk.

Oesophageal Cancer Early Detection

Finding oesophageal cancer early can significantly improve treatment success. Options vary by stage, but may include:

• Surgical removal (oesophagectomy), often using robotic assistance for precision.
• Minimally invasive endoscopic resection for early tumours.
• Chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which may precede or follow surgery.
• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy to attack cancer cells more selectively.

Mild symptoms like a burning throat or swallowing discomfort shouldn’t be ignored; they could be your body’s way of saying, ‘get checked.’ As Dr Dabas notes, early action, from seeing your oncologist to exploring robotic or minimally invasive techniques, can dramatically improve recovery and quality of life.

Don't Miss: The Placenta in Pregnancy: Functions, Common Issues, and Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.

Image Courtesy: Freepik