Overview
Cancer of the food pipe often begins with difficulty swallowing solid food. Endoscopy allows early diagnosis, and a combined surgical and chemotherapy approach offers the best outcomes.
Symptoms to watch for
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Food feeling stuck in the throat or chest
- Unintended weight loss
- Persistent heartburn or reflux
- Hoarseness or chronic cough
How it is diagnosed
- Upper GI endoscopy with biopsy
- CT and PET scans for staging
- Endoscopic ultrasound
- Barium swallow study
Treatment options
- Surgery (esophagectomy) for suitable patients
- Chemotherapy and radiation before surgery
- Stenting to relieve swallowing difficulty
- Nutritional support
Frequently asked questions
Why is swallowing difficult?
A tumour can narrow the food pipe. Any new, persistent difficulty swallowing should be evaluated with an endoscopy.
Other cancers we treat
Book an appointment
Call 093715 24 365 or message us on WhatsApp. OPD Mon–Sat 9 AM – 9 PM · Sun 9 AM – 2 PM · Emergency 24×7.
Eligible patients are treated cashless under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and MJPJAY. Our assistance desk handles the paperwork.