Cancer symptoms can occur in a variety of ways but a doctor has warned of the subtle symptoms that can be a sign of a particularly lethal type of cancer.
Esophageal cancer is the 10th most common cancer in the world and many people are unaware they could be showing symptoms of it.
According to the Cleveland clinic: “It starts in the tissues in your esophagus, the long muscular tube that moves food from your throat to your stomach. Tumors caused by esophageal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms until the cancer has spread.”
This can make the cancer particularly dangerous, and according to a 2017 study, 9 out 10 patients are dead within 10 years from their diagnosis.
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This only increases the importance of spotting the subtle signs of the cancer.
In a TikTok video, Dr Wendi LeBrett broke down some of the symptoms that can occur that people should be wary of.
She said: “About 60 to 70 per cent of people with acid reflux have the typical symptom of heartburn—the burning sensation in your chest often after eating.
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“That means around one in three do not have typical symptoms or know they have the condition.
“Watch out for a chronic cough, particularly at night when acid reflux is worse.
“Breathing problems can also be a symptom as the acid irritates the airways and can exacerbate conditions like asthma.
“Problems swallowing is also an atypical symptom.”
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She added that dentist may be able to spot acid damage to your teeth and this can also be highlighted by yellowing of teeth as well as cracks and increased sensitivity.
She added that anyone suffering these symptoms should seek help from a healthcare professional.
Acid reflux is common amongst the general populace and can occur simply after eating a large, rich meal or lying down after a meal.
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Occasional acid reflux is normal and manageable according to the Cleveland Clinic, but ‘chronic acid reflux (GERD) might need treatment'.
The medical center added: “When acid creeps into places it doesn’t belong, you’re bound to feel it. Acid irritates and inflames the tissues inside your esophagus, which runs from your stomach up through your chest to your throat.
“Almost everyone has experienced an occasional episode of acid reflux. It might feel like indigestion — burning stomach pain after eating — or heartburn — burning chest pain close to your sternum.”
Gerrard Kaonga