Complications of Esophageal Cancer

Overview

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It is one of the most common cancers of the digestive tract and can have serious complications. Complications may occur from the disease or from its treatment.

Complications of esophageal cancer include:

• Esophageal obstruction: The tumor may make it difficult for food and liquids to pass through the esophagus to reach the stomach. In addition, pain from the esophageal cancer may make it difficult to swallow food. Both of these may lead to difficulty taking in enough nutrients and result in weight loss.
• Bleeding in the esophagus: Esophageal cancer can cause the blood vessels in the esophagus to bleed. Bleeding may be mild or severe.
• Pain: Esophageal cancer may cause pain in the chest, back and between the shoulder blades. Pain often worsens when trying to swallow. People with indigestion also may have more pain during indigestion episodes.
  • Pain after eating may result from treatment of esophageal cancer. Reflux esophagitis occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing inflammation and discomfort. It can be a complication of esophageal cancer surgery due to changes in the anatomy of the digestive system. To prevent reflux esophagitis, patients may be prescribed medications that reduce stomach acid production or promote healing of the esophagus lining.
• Dumping syndrome: Normally the stomach holds food and begins the digestive process before passing the food through to the intestines. With esophageal cancer, sometimes the stomach cannot hold the food long enough to begin digestion. When food moves too quickly into the small intestine, it can result in abdominal cramps and diarrhea shortly after eating.
  • Functional gastric emptying disorder may result from treatment of esophageal cancer. Some patients with esophageal cancer may experience functional gastric emptying disorder after surgery, which affects how food moves through the stomach. Gastroplasty (a surgical procedure) may be recommended as a preventive measure for this complication.
• Chronic hiccups: If an esophageal tumor irritates the diaphragm or nerves leading to the diaphragm, it may cause the diaphragm to repeatedly contract and cause hiccups.

It's important to note that these complications can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience them. Each individual's situation is unique, so it's crucial for patients to discuss their specific risks and preventive measures with their healthcare team.