You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent difficulty swallowing that worsens over time.

• Unexplained weight loss.

• Severe or frequent heartburn that doesn't improve with treatment.

• Chest pain or discomfort when eating or drinking.

• Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools (a sign of internal bleeding).

 Do's:

• Quit smoking: This reduces your risk of esophageal cancer significantly.

• Limit alcohol consumption: Drink in moderation or abstain altogether.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent GERD and lower your risk of cancer.

• Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Manage GERD: Take medications and adopt lifestyle changes to control acid reflux.

• Attend regular checkups: Follow your doctor's advice if you have Barrett's esophagus or chronic GERD.

 Don'ts:

• Avoid spicy, acidic, or fatty foods: These can aggravate heartburn or GERD.

• Don't ignore persistent symptoms: Difficulty swallowing or chest pain should be evaluated by a doctor.

• Avoid excessive processed and red meat: Studies link these to an increased cancer risk.

• Don't rely solely on home remedies: While lifestyle changes can be helpful, professional medical treatment is often necessary.

Disclaimer:

Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's essential to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.

For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:

Mayoclinic | Esophageal cancer

Cleveland Clinic | Esophageal Cancer

American Cancer Society | Esophageal Cancer