Esophageal Cancer in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophageal cancer?
Esophageal cancer affects the esophagus, the passageway that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Cancer develops when abnormal cells begin to grow in the esophageal tissue. These abnormal cells will form a mass called a tumor. Depending on what type of cells are formed, there are two types of esophageal cancer:
- Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus: This type of esophageal cancer typically forms in the lower esophagus from the cells of mucus-secreting glands in the esophagus. It is the most common form of esophageal cancer.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of esophageal cancer usually forms in the upper or middle part of the esophagus. This cancer develops from cells that are on the inside lining of the esophagus.
Our skilled GI providers are prepared to render treatment for esophageal cancer in Thibodaux, LA. If you or a loved one are concerned you may have esophageal cancer, please contact a Digestive Health Center location near you immediately.
What are the causes and symptoms of esophageal cancer?
The cause of esophageal cancer is not yet known, but certain factors do make you more susceptible to this type of cancer. These factors can include:
- Advanced age
- Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Obesity
- Barrett's Esophagus
- Diet
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Chemicals and pollutants
You may not present any symptoms during the early stages of esophageal cancer. As the cancer grows, symptoms may start to develop. Some of the symptoms you may have include:
- Weight loss
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Coughing
- Frequent choking
- Hoarseness
- Indigestion
If you are at greater risk for developing this type of cancer or if you are experiencing symptoms, please request a consultation at your nearest Thibodaux, LA location.
How is esophageal cancer diagnosed and treated?
Esophageal cancer can be detected in various ways. Your GI provider may ask you several questions about the symptoms you are experiencing. A physical examination by a specialist could also be used to detect this cancer. Your specialist may order additional tests to help determine the diagnosis. Some of these include:
- Biopsy: A small portion of the tissue is excised and examined for abnormal cells.
- Barium X-rays: A type of diagnostic X-rays where tumors are identified using barium. Your provider will ask you to drink a liquid with barium while the X-rays are being taken. The barium will coat the walls of the esophagus and stomach to make any irregularities visible.
- Endoscopy: A procedure where a long, flexible tube equipped with a small camera is used to examine the lining of the stomach, esophagus, and part of the small intestine.
There are a few different ways esophageal cancer can be treated. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery are all viable treatment options. Esophagectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the part of your esophagus where your tumor is and any nearby lymph nodes. Once these are removed, the esophagus is once again connected to your stomach.
If you are seeking specialized care for esophageal cancer, contact a GI provider at a Digestive Health Center near you.
Compassionate care for esophageal cancer
If you believe you are at risk for esophageal cancer or you have been diagnosed with this cancer, trust our board-certified GI providers to help you manage and treat this condition. Our skilled providers have experience treating all types of cancer of the GI tract. At Digestive Health Center, our providers are dedicated to providing the most innovative treatment and patient-focused care. To request a consultation at one of our Thibodaux, LA locations, connect with our team today.
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