Cancer

Hi and welcome to the Community. I'm sorry to hear what you're going through and I can understand your fear. There are stronger medications, but have you checked your diet? There are a lot of foods best avoided with your pains and burning sensation. My husband had oesophageal cancer, but it developed from pains like yours over a period of twenty years before it became cancer. Quite honestly, I'd suggest checking the diet first, but remember the importance of your mental health. Fears are not silly, you're not over-reacting, you're worried and it would be a very good idea to chat to your GP about your fears.

Hi thank you for replying to me. It started after I ate a sweet chilli wrap! About an hour afterwards. I have never had heartburn before! My doctor is aware of my anxieties. That was three weeks ago. The drinking has got better, but a few seconds after I eat when it hits the lower area it hurts as it goes down. Doctor said it is inflamed, inflammation but surely it would of healed by now? Kelly 

, Hi Kelly,

Not necessarily; inflammation can take a long time to settle, but the doctor couldn't possibly see the lower oesophagus. Perhaps the speed of the onset is a good sign but I have no expertise. it might be a good idea to post on our Ask An Expert page for some advice or chat to one of our experts on the helpline 0808 808 0000.

Hi. Thank you for talking to me. What do you mean by the speed of onset is a good sign? I think he said lower esophagus sounds like it’s inflamed. I am so scared I have three children who need me. 
thanks 

I had oesophageal cancer followed by surgery some years ago. I had had heartburn for most of my adult life eventually it was fairly well controlled with lansoprazole. However it still developed into cancer. I had no discomfort on eating around the time of diagnosis. Like most people with oesophageal cancer I had problems swallowing but no pain or burning.

My wife recently experienced burning on drinking certain things, including some red wines. As we were well aware of the “possibilities” she immediately sought medical advice. She was referred for a gastroscopy.  It transpires she has a hiatus hernia, not cancer! So long as she takes omeprazole (similar to lansoprazole, to reduce stomach acid) and avoids the foods and drink that aggravate her she’s fine.

It could have been chronic inflammation of the lower oesophagus (Barrett’s oesophagus) which would need to be monitored to ensure it doesn’t develop into cancer. But the gastroscope gave the definitive diagnosis.

You may simply be suffering from an acute inflammation or it could be a longer lasting chronic condition which should be monitored. A gastroscope would give the definitive answer. I hope our stories help put your mind at rest. 

Hi , you really need to speak to an expert.  If you look at the symptoms of oesophageal cancer you don't seem to have anything to worry about.  Please don't be scared, you really need to speak to one of our experts for reassurance.

Love and hugs,

Hi so do you think the chilli wrap caused inflammation and it’s still healing? I have never suffered with heartburn! I’m 38. Drinking is getting better, cold drinks are fine it’s just tea that still hurts a bit. Certain foods hurt more than others. Thanks 

Hi , I can't give you a medical diagnosis. It's what your doctor is saying that counts and, as you say, the GPs diagnosis is 'inflammation' and it must be to your GP that you address your concerns. Sorry, but Macmillan does not permit champs to diagnose or second guess doctors; we're not trained or qualified. 

Sorry, I wasn’t asking for your medical opinion. Just advice. Sorry this came across wrong

Hi Kelly, as Others have said we can't give medical diagnosis or advice, merely our experience. Generally  oesophageal cancer develops over time, quite often after a history of acid reflux. Does drinking cold milk soothe the throat? I know from experience that swallowing something that seems to scrape the gullet does leave a raw feeling for a few weeks. Sometimes avoiding the foods that seem to cause the irritation and letting the food cool slightly can help. For me it was foods sticking so I started to avoid breads like nan and pitta, then gradually other food like steak. All this still accompanied with acid reflux and considerable weight loss until my wife finally got me to go to the doctor. An endoscopy found a tumour at the junction with the stomach. I think you may be a natural worrier but give it a little more time to heal and if no improvement then consultant your GP again. Remember the optimist sees light at the end of the tunnel, the pessimist sees the light as a train heading straight for him. The train driver sees 2 idiots standing on the train tracks. Good luck and try not to worry too much, kind regards Frank.