What it is
Treatment depends on the type of cancer, where it is and how far it has spread. It may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination.
When cancer cannot be cured, treatments such as a stent can help with swallowing and comfort. A specialist team plans care.
Common signs
- Difficulty swallowing
- Food feeling stuck
- Losing weight without trying
- Heartburn or indigestion that does not go away
- Being sick
- A hoarse voice or cough that does not go away
How it is usually diagnosed
- A camera test into the food pipe (gastroscopy) with a biopsy
- CT or PET scans to see if it has spread
- Endoscopic ultrasound
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Gastroscopy and biopsy reports
- Scan reports
- Multidisciplinary team (MDT) letters
- Treatment plans and summaries
Questions to ask your doctor
- What type and stage of cancer is it?
- What are my treatment options?
- Who is my main contact in the team?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Being unable to swallow anything, including liquids, or vomiting blood: get urgent help, call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.