HomeAnswersOtolaryngology (E.N.T)esophageal disordersAre throat and sternal pain while swallowing indicate esophageal cancer?

I have intermittent throat pain while swallowing along with sternal pain. Are these signs of esophageal cancer?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At September 27, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 24, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 26-year-old male. I have intermittent slight pain while swallowing and also have slight sternum pain. What are the chances of esophageal cancer?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

My question now is not about pain but about the difficulty of swallowing. Do you swallow solid food easily or liquid food? Or no difference? Do you have reflux in the form of a burning sensation in your chest or your stomach? Do you have a bitter taste in your throat when waking up in the morning? Do you smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol?

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I can eat a full meal, pizza, meat, chips, toast, crisps, and drinks. I am not bringing any food back up, and I am not sick. I do not have reflux as far as I am aware and no burning feel. No bitter taste in the morning, and I also do not smoke or drink.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I think that it is entirely away from cancer. You can perform a barium swallow imaging test for the whole esophagus for more assurance, proving that everything is normal. It can be some achalasia or abnormal esophageal motility.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

Is the fact that I can eat full meals without regurgitating or being sick a good sign that I am normal? Also, is the fact that I am only 26 even a good sign?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, sure, patients with esophageal cancer cannot eat normally and can lose appetite. I asked you to perform the barium swallow imaging test just for assurance. The problem of altered esophageal motility needs a gastrointestinal specialist, not an ENT.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Mohammed Osama Aboborda
Dr. Mohammed Osama Aboborda

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

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