Esophageal cancer symptoms can vary from person to person, and early esophageal cancer typically causes no signs or symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, it can cause the following symptoms:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): This is the most common symptom of esophageal cancer. It can feel like the food is stuck in the throat or chest, and can even cause someone to choke on their food. This is often mild when it starts, and then gets worse over time as the cancer grows and the opening inside the esophagus gets smaller.

• Weight loss without trying: Roughly 50% of people with esophageal cancer experience unexplained weight loss. This can be due to eating less due to swallowing problems or a decreased appetite due to the cancer.

• Chest pain, pressure, or burning: This can occur when the cancer has spread to nearby tissues or organs.

• Worsening indigestion or heartburn: This can occur when the cancer has spread to the stomach.

• Coughing or hoarseness: This can occur when the cancer has spread to the trachea or larynx.

Its important to note that having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has esophageal cancer. Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. However, if someone experiences any of these symptoms, especially difficulty swallowing, its important to have them checked by a doctor so that the cause can be found and treated, if needed.