Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer is a serious form of cancer that starts in the esophagus. Symptoms of esophageal cancer vary individually. If you have a tumor in your esophagus that's large enough, you may experience difficulty with swallowing and as it worsens, even swallowing liquids becomes quite difficult. This form of cancer can cause severe weight loss since eating becomes too difficult. You may also experience throat pain, hoarseness or a chronic cough. Understand that these symptoms are similar to other types of cancers, so your doctor has the task of understanding your medical history, smoking habits and performing the correct tests to reach the proper diagnosis.

Your esophagus has multiple layers of cells that all have a distinct role. Cancer can develop in any layer of the esophagus, and depending on which layer the cancer originates will determine what classification the esophagus cancer will fall under, i.e. squamous cell or adenocarcinoma. Any infection that occurs in this region can lead to issues with breathing and eating.

Risks of Esophageal Cancer from Tobacco.

Using tobacco with cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or even chewing tobacco will increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer. Researchers continue to study esophageal cancer to determine what causes it and how to prevent it, but there is consensus that quitting smoking should be the first step of preventative treatment, and never smoking at all should also be part of the prevention plan when possible. Other risk factors could be how much alcohol is consumed, the age, gender, and race of the patient as well as diet.

Treatment of Esophageal Cancer.

Like most cancers, treatment of esophageal cancer will depend on several factors. The doctor will need to evaluate how far the cancer has spread. The doctor will have to consider the current health status of the patient as well as the medical history. Treatment plans can sometimes be quite complicated since using multiple treatments at once is sometimes more effective then using one at a time.

Once your doctor has performed enough tests and has knowledge of your family medical history and your current condition, there are several treatment options. Keep in mind that the goal is to remove the cancer whenever possible. Each case is different and sometimes the only choice may be to prevent the spread of the cancer and/or simply treat the symptoms. Surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, or the combination of the three are all options. Participating in a clinical trial may also be something to consider.

Diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer.

If you are a smoker and have been diagnosed with some form of esophageal cancer, contact an attorney today to learn more about your legal rights, as recent developments in the law have created an opportunity to more efficiently hold tobacco companies accountable. An experienced trial attorney will be able to explain these legal options to you in detail, but you only have a certain amount of time to protect your rights.