Esophageal cancer, also known as esophageal carcinoma, is a cancer that develops in the tube or food pipe (esophagus) that runs from the throat to the stomach. It is one of the most common cancers around the world, and it affects more men than women. The condition often remains undiagnosed until after the cancer has spread. However, if its symptoms are detected early, esophageal cancer can be managed with the right treatment.

The causes

When it comes to the factors that cause esophageal cancer, there is no clear evidence of which factors are the cause. However, it is believed that this particular cancer is related to the mutations or abnormalities of the DNA that are related to the esophagus. It is this mutation that signals the cells in the esophagus to multiply abnormally and rapidly, compared to normal cell division in a healthy esophagus.

The symptoms

Remember, during the early stages of esophageal cancer, a patient is less likely to experience any of these symptoms. Patients sometimes experience no symptoms at all when suffering from the early stages of esophageal cancer. However, as the disease progresses, some symptoms become evident which are:

• Digestion issues
• Sudden weight loss
• Heartburn
• Vomiting
• Pain and difficulty in swallowing
• Fatigue
• Pain in the chest
• Choking while eating
• Food coming back up through the esophagus
• A chronic cough or hoarseness

Treatment options

Just like any other form of cancer, there is some cancer of esophagus treatment options available to patients. The doctors recommend surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of different treatments. Surgery can also be used either alone or in combination with other treatments. There is also photodynamic therapy and laser therapy available, but these are not commonly used as treatment options for cancer of the esophagus. For complications and pain management during the treatment, patients should consider support groups that offer medical, emotional and financial assistance.

The Causes Symptoms and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer options that are available out there has made it possible for this disease to be treated fairly well. However, depending on various factors such as the condition and the health of the patient, the severity of the esophagus cancer, and the areas it has affected, patients may be offered one or a combination of the cancer of esophagus treatment options that are available.