- The primary causes of esophageal cancer include chronic irritation of the esophagus, often due to smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Symptoms of esophageal cancer may manifest as difficulty or pain while swallowing, weight loss, chest pain, persistent coughing, or hoarseness.
- Treatment options for esophageal cancer involve a multidisciplinary approach. Common strategies include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, often used in combination for maximum effectiveness.
- Surgical interventions may include removing the tumor or part of the esophagus. Radiation therapy targets cancer cells with high-energy rays, while chemotherapy utilizes drugs to destroy or control cancer cells.
- The choice of treatment depends on factors like the cancer stage, overall health, and patient preferences, with a focus on improving quality of life and managing symptoms.
Anyone past middle age who experiences difficulty swallowing that worsens daily may be suffering from esophageal cancer symptoms unless proven otherwise. This condition is more prevalent among individuals who smoke and drink alcohol regularly. The esophageal tumor typically begins as a small ulcer inside the esophagus, eventually causing pain in the esophagus and progressive blockage, leading to more severe swallowing difficulties.
Esophageal Cancer Risk Factors
The primary risk factors for esophageal cancer include:
> Smoking
> Chronic alcohol consumption
> A history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
> Obesity
> Diet low in fruits and vegetables
Esophageal Cancer Diagnosis
Diagnosis of esophageal cancer is usually confirmed through an upper GI endoscopy and a biopsy. A PET CT scan is then used to assess the spread of the tumor. For individuals experiencing pain in the esophagus or other esophageal tumor symptoms, early diagnosis is crucial.
Esophageal Cancer Surgery and Treatment
Most patients undergo pre-operative radiotherapy before surgery. Esophageal cancer surgery involves removing the entire esophagus along with the tumor and reconstructing the gap using a segment of the colon or stomach. Some patients require post-operative nutritional support for recovery. Despite these interventions, the prognosis of esophageal cancer remains less favorable compared to other gastrointestinal cancers like colon and stomach cancer.
Esophageal Cancer Management
Dr. Patta Radhakrishna has been managing and treating esophageal cancer for over 30 years, providing expert care in both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
Dr. Patta Radhakrishna has been managing and treating esophageal cancer for over 30 years, providing expert care in both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
