It's never good to ignore the signs 

They could be telling you something important  

In the North West of England, oesophageal cancer rates are 24% higher than the national average, and all five counties record higher than average rates of this cancer. 

Sometimes, signs of oesophageal cancer can be easily ignored and mistaken for less serious conditions. That's why speaking to a GP is so important, as an early diagnosis could lead to better outcomes. 

It's probably nothing, but it's best to get it checked  

Oesophageal cancer is a condition that affects the tube that carries food to the stomach and can occur in any part of the oesophagus, including where it joins the stomach.  

It’s more common in older people, with around 40% of new cases occurring in people over the age of 75. It also tends to be more common in men than in women. 

Anyone can get it, but you might be more at risk if you: 

• are over the age of 75  
• are a man 
• have certain conditions, such as long-term, severe acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), or Barrett's oesophagus 

Barrett's oesophagus is sometimes called a pre-cancerous condition and is caused by some of the cells in your oesophagus growing abnormally. Although it’s not common, if you have it, you're slightly more likely to get oesophageal cancer.  

Many oesophageal cancers are also linked to lifestyle. For example, you're more likely to get it if you're overweight, smoke or drink too much alcohol. 

Know the warning signs to look out for 

Oesophageal cancer can often be hard to spot due to its symptoms. 

That’s why knowing what to look out for and when to speak to your GP is so important. Especially if you find your symptoms change, get worse or do not feel normal to you. As it could be your body trying to tell you something.  

The main symptoms of oesophageal cancer can affect your digestion, such as:  

• Having problems swallowing  
• Feeling or being sick   
• Heartburn or acid reflux  
• Symptoms of indigestion, such as burping a lot  

Other symptoms include:   

• A continued cough that doesn't appear to be getting better   
• A hoarse voice   
• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss  
• Feeling tired or having no energy  
• Pain when swallowing, particularly in your throat or middle of your chest   

Other less common symptoms include:  

• Black poo  
• Coughing up blood 

If you have any of these symptoms, it's never good to ignore them. Instead, it's best to get them checked because the sooner you do, the better the outcome.