Esophageal Cancer Risk Factors and Symptoms, According to Dr. Oz
Knowing the risk factors and the symptoms of esophageal cancer is one way to recognize the disease if you or someone you love develops it. This is one reason why it is important to know this information. Another reason that it is important to know these facts is that by the time this type of cancer is usually caught by a physician it has all ready spread throughout the body. This can make the chances of survival even less.
Recently, Dr. Oz, the popular host the television that goes by his name, did a segment that examines both the risk factors and the symptoms of esophageal cancer. Here is a brief summary of what he shared with his viewing audience.
Symptoms
There aren't many symptoms that can indicate that you have this disease. But if you have either of these symptoms and they aren't going away, you may want to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and make sure he schedules some testing.- Hoarseness
- Heartburn
Risk Factors
There are a number of risk factors that can help bring on this disease. Some of these risk factors are things that people can avoid or lifestyle choices they can change. They include:
- Eating a high acid diet that contains such items as: caffeine, chocolate, breath mints, tomatoes and alcohol
- Smoking
- Having a condition known as Barettes Espoghageous.
There are some things you can do to help keep your esophagus healthy. They include:
- Waiting 3 hours after eating before going to bed
- Treating heartburn with acid blocking medication
- Having testing done if your heartburn or hoarseness does not go away after a decent amount of time. This testing can include a nasal esophagoscopy. This is an easy procedure that doesn't even require sedation.
Take your health seriously. Take ongoing hoarseness and heartburn symptoms seriously. You can be your best doctor by making sure your doctor knows when something isn't right. This is the best way to treat esophageal cancer before it spreads.
Sources:
"Dr.Oz"
WBNS Television, Columbus, Ohio (CBS)
Published by Linda M. McCloud
Freelance writer living in Ohio, who is striving to learn more each day, especially about topics that relates to health, wellness, diet, weight loss & exercise. Enjoys taking what I learn and sharing it with... View profile
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