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Oesophageal cancer

Mittme
Offline

Hi, I've gotten myself into a huge panic. Over the last few weeks I've had pretty much constant heartburn and pain when swallowing. I have a life long habit of drinking scalding hot drinks which I know is a risk factor for oesophageal cancer. I am now absolutely petrified that this is what I have. I am going to my GP today but won't rest until I have the appropriate investigations performed. I just wondered if anybody had any experience with this or could offer me any words of comfort.

Thanks in advance 

Esme 

  • Hi Esme and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to learn that you are having symptoms that are causing you concern.

    There are many reasons for heartburn and acid reflux and sometimes age is a factor.

    This is because as we get older the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), which acts as a valve between the stomach and oesophagus becomes weak.  This weakening can lead to stomach acid flowing back into the oesophagus more easily, causing heartburn.

    You may also like to read our webpage on hot tea causes oesophageal cancer which explores the  crucial details missing from headlines that you may have read.

    I hope this information helps.

    Let us know if you have any further questions or concerns.

    You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5 pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards

    Tina

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Tina

    Hi Tina,

    Thank you for taking the time to reply, I really appreciate that. I guess I just have to wait until I know more but I've really gone down a rabbit hole. I don't understand why this has suddenly started happening when I've never, ever suffered from heartburn up till now. It's making me fear the worst. 

    I also get these stabbing pains in my abdomen and am inexplicably tired all the time. I've just convinced myself of the worst.

  • in reply to Mittme

    Hi Esme

    Thank you for getting back to us.

    Hopefully you will know more after your consultation with your GP.

    I know this is a difficult time and I can understand you are worrying. I would say that although the internet has a lot of information, it is not going to be talking specifically about your situation which isn't helpful and can heighten anxiety.

    In the meantime,   Anxiety UK has a good website with helpful tips on how to deal with anxiety in these situations. 

    Good luck at your GP appointment.

    Kind regards

    Tina

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