The first sign of esophageal cancer is often difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), which can create a sensation that food is lodged in the throat. This difficulty swallowing is usually mild at the beginning and worsens as the tumor grows, causing the esophagus to become narrower
. Other early signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer can include weight loss without trying, chest pain or discomfort, indigestion and heartburn over long periods of time, hoarseness, chronic cough, vomiting, and bone pain if the cancer has spread to the bone
. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek treatment early when the cancer is more treatable
