Dysphagia – Is It a Sign of Esophageal Cancer?

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common symptom of advanced or locally progressed esophageal cancer. If the condition worsens progressively, esophageal cancer should be strongly considered. A combination of chest CT scans and gastroscopy can usually provide a clear diagnosis. However, there are other non-cancerous conditions that can also lead to swallowing difficulties.

One possible cause is metastatic lymph nodes from lung cancer located in the mediastinum. As these nodes grow, they can compress the esophagus and interfere with normal swallowing function.

Another potential cause is mediastinal tumors that, when developed to a certain size, can exert pressure on the esophagus. This pressure can lead to noticeable difficulty when trying to swallow food or liquids.

In addition, certain benign conditions can also result in dysphagia. For example, an esophageal foreign body obstruction or scarring from previous damage can cause narrowing of the esophagus, which in turn leads to swallowing problems.

Lastly, patients with long-term gastrointestinal disorders may experience esophageal motility issues, such as reduced peristalsis due to esophageal laxity. This dysfunction can also contribute to difficulty in swallowing.

In conclusion, dysphagia is a symptom that should not be ignored. It requires careful clinical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and prevent misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.