Esophageal cancer occurs when cancer cells develop in the esophagus, a tube-like structure that runs from the throat to the stomach through the esophagus. The cancer starts at the inner layer of the esophagus and can spread throughout the other layers of the esophagus and to other parts of the body (metastasis).
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer include;
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Weight loss without trying
- Chest pain, pressure or burning
- Worsening indigestion or heartburn
- Coughing or hoarseness
Types of Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is classified according to the type of cells that are involved. The type of esophageal cancer a person has helps determine the treatment options. Types of esophageal cancer include:
- Adenocarcinoma – it begins in the cells of the mucus-secreting glands in the esophagus.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma – the squamous cells are flat, thin cells that line the surface of the esophagus.
- Other Rare Types – some rare forms of esophageal cancer include small cell carcinoma, sarcoma, lymphoma, melanoma and carcinoma.
Causes of Esophageal Cancer
The exact cause of esophageal cancer is unknown, but the following things can increase their risk:
- Persistent gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GORD)
- Smoking
- Drinking too much alcohol over a long period of time
- Being overweight or obese
- Having an unhealthy diet that’s low in fruit and vegetables
Treatment for Esophageal Cancer
The treatment a patient receives for esophageal cancer is based on the type of cells involved in the cancer, the cancer’s stage, the overall health and the patient’s preferences for treatment.
Surgery – Surgery to remove the cancer can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.
- Surgery to remove very small tumors
- Surgery to remove a portion of the esophagus (esophagectomy)
- Surgery to remove part of your esophagus and the upper portion of your stomach (esophagogastrectomy)
Chemotherapy – drug treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy – uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays and protons, to kill cancer cells.
Combined Chemotherapy and Radiation – Combining chemotherapy and radiation therapy may enhance the effectiveness of each treatment
Targeted Drug Therapy – focuses on specific weaknesses present within cancer cells.
Immunotherapy – a drug treatment that helps your immune system to fight cancer.
What We Offer
We at Almurshidi Medical Tourism will find the best doctors to cater to your needs. We are partnered with a wide network of hospitals and clinics that provide top quality medical experience.
We provide free medical estimates, make medical appointments, and provide several medical opinions if needed at no cost.
Contact Us
For more information contact us at +66822004040 or via WhatsApp
