Esophageal Cancer Symptoms

May 25, 2025

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Jae Y. Kim, M.D., associate professor, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, City of Hope^® Cancer Center Duarte

While esophageal cancer has distinct symptoms, most people feel those symptoms when the cancer is advanced and more difficult to treat. Sometimes esophageal cancer is found in early stages by chance through tests performed for other health issues.

Many esophageal cancer symptoms, such as chest pain, chronic cough or hoarseness, are the same as those for other common conditions. A doctor is needed to determine what is happening and to make an accurate diagnosis.

Is Difficulty Swallowing a Sign of Cancer?

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) is the most common symptom of esophageal cancer. Patients may feel pain or burning in their chest when they swallow. Sometimes they may feel as though food has stuck to the chest or throat. Swallowing difficulty occurs because the esophagus has narrowed.

People with this symptom may begin swapping out harder foods for softer foods and liquids. They may also notice more saliva or mucus in the mouth and throat.

While difficulty swallowing may be caused by noncancerous conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or injury, a doctor should check out this symptom to be sure.

Chest Pain and Cough

Chest pain and cough may also occur in those with esophageal cancer. Chest pain is typically felt above the stomach, in the left center, but sometimes it may be felt between the shoulder blades or in the back. Swallowing or indigestion may make the pain sharper. Pain may occur after swallowing or when food reaches the tumor and is unable to get around it. Sometimes esophageal cancer causes a persistent cough, which may worsen when eating.

Weight Loss

People with esophageal cancer often lose weight without trying. Weight loss occurs because esophageal cancer causes trouble swallowing, making eating difficult. Some patients are unable to eat enough to maintain their weight. Cancer may also cause a decrease in appetite and may speed metabolism, which means burning calories from the foods consumed faster than normal.

Hoarseness

Another symptom, though less common, is hoarseness. When a person with esophageal cancer speaks, his or her voice may sound raspy or croaky. Hoarseness may also be a sign of other harmless conditions, such as GERD or laryngitis infection.

Bleeding in the Throat

Bleeding in the throat may also be a symptom of esophageal cancer. Patients may expel blood if they vomit or cough. However, this symptom is uncommon.

Other Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer

Other, less common symptoms of esophageal cancer may include those listed below.

Regurgitation: Food may come back up the esophagus after it has been swallowed.

Dark stools: Stools may be almost black because the esophagus is bleeding.

Fatigue: Esophageal cancer might cause people to feel overly tired without an obvious explanation. Also, if the cancer causes the esophagus to bleed, red blood cell counts may drop, resulting in anemia, which may cause tiredness.

Bone pain: If the cancer spreads to the bone, bone pain may result.

Vomiting: If the esophagus is bleeding, vomit may contain some blood.