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What You Need To Know About™ Cancer of the Esophagus
    Posted: 09/14/1999    Updated: 09/16/2002



Introduction






The Esophagus






Understanding the Cancer Process






Risk Factors







Recognizing Symptoms






Diagnosing Esophageal Cancer






Staging the Disease






Treatment






Side Effects of Treatment






Nutrition for Cancer Patients






The Importance of Followup Care






Providing Emotional Support






Questions for Your Doctor






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Recognizing Symptoms

Early esophageal cancer usually does not cause symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, symptoms may include:

  • Difficult or painful swallowing

  • Severe weight loss

  • Pain in the throat or back, behind the breastbone or between the shoulder blades

  • Hoarseness or chronic cough

  • Vomiting

  • Coughing up blood

These symptoms may be caused by esophageal cancer or by other conditions. It is important to check with a doctor.

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