Oesophageal cancer doesn’t usually have any symptoms at first. But as cancer grows, it can cause swallowing problems and other symptoms.

Difficulty swallowing is the most common symptom of oesophageal cancer.

Cancer can narrow the oesophagus, making it difficult for food to pass down. It may feel as though food is getting stuck and sometimes swallowing may be uncomfortable or painful.

You may have to chew your food more thoroughly, or you can only eat soft foods. If the tumour continues to grow, even liquids may become difficult to swallow.

Other symptoms of oesophageal cancer can include:

• persistent indigestion or heartburn
• bringing up food soon after eating
• loss of appetite and weight loss
• persistent vomiting
• pain or discomfort in your upper tummy, chest or back
• a persistent cough
• hoarseness
• tiredness, shortness of breath and pale skin
• vomiting blood or coughing up blood – although this is uncommon