Disease
Esophageal Cancer
Overview of Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer refers to the malignant growth in the esophagus, the long tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This cancer can develop in different parts of the esophagus and affect its ability to function properly. It is a serious condition that requires early detection and treatment for better outcomes.
Types of Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal Adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer starts in the mucus producing glands in the lower part of the esophagus. It is the most common form of esophageal cancer in the Western world.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This type affects the cells lining the esophagus and is more common in parts of the world like Asia and Africa.
Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent heartburn or indigestion
- Painful swallowing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Hoarseness or chronic cough
- Vomiting which may contain blood
Causes of Esophageal Cancer
The exact cause of esophageal cancer is not fully understood but several factors may contribute to its development such as:
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
- Barrett’s esophagus (a condition where the esophagus lining changes due to acid exposure)
- Obesity and poor diet
- Genetic mutations and family history
Complications in Esophageal Cancer
- Metastasis: Spread of cancer to other parts of the body such as the liver, lungs and lymph nodes.
- Difficulty swallowing: As the tumor grows it can block the esophagus making it difficult to eat or drink.
- Malnutrition: Difficulty swallowing and weight loss can result in malnutrition.
Risk Factors of Esophageal Cancer
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Age (most common in people over 60)
- Family history of esophageal cancer
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Obesity
- Poor diet especially low in fruits and vegetables
Preventions of Esophageal Cancer
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains
- Manage chronic acid reflux effectively
- Regular screening for those with a family history or at high risk
Diagnosis of Esophageal Cancer
- Endoscopy: A procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the esophagus and obtain tissue samples for biopsy.
- Barium swallow: An X-ray procedure that helps visualize abnormalities in the esophagus.
- CT scans or MRI: These imaging tests help determine the stage of cancer and if it has spread.
Treatments of Esophageal Cancer
- Surgery: Removal of the tumor or the entire esophagus may be necessary, followed by reconstruction using part of the stomach or intestines.
- Radiation therapy: High energy rays are used to target and kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth.
- Targeted therapy: This involves drugs that specifically target cancer cells with less damage to healthy cells.
- Immunotherapy: A newer treatment that helps the immune system fight cancer.
Prognosis of Esophageal Cancer
- Early Detection is Key: The earlier esophageal cancer is diagnosed the higher the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
- Personalised Treatment Improves Outcomes: Tailored care enhances treatment effectiveness and improves the likelihood of positive results.
- Staging Impacts Survival: Early stage cancers have better outcomes but advances in treatment are improving survival rates even in later stages.
- Support Matters: Emotional and nutritional support, along with post treatment care, contribute significantly to quality of life and long term recovery.
- Innovative Therapies Offer Hope: New treatments like targeted therapies and immunotherapies are improving prognosis, even for advanced cases.
- Long Term Management is Possible: Many patients live many years after treatment, especially with regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Personalised Treatment: We create individualised treatment plans ensuring your care is tailored to your unique needs.
- Comprehensive Support: From emotional to physical care, we support you every step of the way to ensure comfort and well-being.
- Advanced Treatments: Our advanced and modern therapies and cutting-edge technologies give you the best chance for recovery.
- Holistic Care: We treat the whole person, offering emotional, nutritional and pain management support alongside medical care.
- Dedicated Team: A multidisciplinary team of experts collaborates to create a care plan designed for your success.
- Ongoing Monitoring: We provide long term care and follow up to ensure your health remains stable after treatment.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What is the type and stage of my esophageal cancer?
- Â What treatment options are available for me and which one do you recommend?
- Â What are the potential side effects of the recommended treatment?
- Â How will the treatment affect my daily life and routine?
- Â What are my chances of remission and how do we monitor for recurrence?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear Communication: Patients expect simple, honest explanations about their diagnosis and treatment options.
- Empathy: They want to feel heard and understood, with their concerns taken seriously.
- Personalised Care: Patients seek a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.
- Guidance and Reassurance: They look for reassurance and confidence in their treatment path.
- Open Dialogue: Patients want the freedom to ask questions and receive detailed answers.
- Respect for Time and Emotions: They appreciate doctors who are punctual, attentive and compassionate.