Oesophageal cancer

Overview

In oesophageal cancer, the food pipe (or gullet) gets progressively narrower; this causes difficulty swallowing solids and later also fluids. Other symptoms include belching or hoarseness. Preventive measures include moderate consumption of alcohol, no smoking and avoidance of excess weight.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

• Difficulty/pain when swallowing (in particular solid foods, whereas mushy foods and fluids can initially still be swallowed easily)
• Chest pressure/pain behind the sternum

Other symptoms

• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Vomiting or spitting up blood
• Hoarseness

Causes and treatment

Causes

Risk factors include:

• Regular consumption of high-proof alcohol
• Smoking
• Repeated contact of oesophagus with stomach acid (reflux disease, belching)

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

• Endoscopy of gullet (oesophagoscopy) with simultaneous removal of a tissue sample for examination under a microscope (biopsy)
• X-ray
• CT scan (computed tomography)
• PET (positron emission tomography)

Possible therapies

• Operation (only in the early stages)
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Insertion of small tube into the oesophagus (stent) so that food and fluids can be swallowed again

What can I do myself?

• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol
• Don't smoke
• Avoid being overweight

When to see a doctor?

• Difficulty/pain when swallowing
• Involuntary weight loss
• Sudden loss of appetite

Further information

Swiss Cancer League (Krebsliga Schweiz)
www.krebsliga.ch