Heartburn sufferers who have difficulty swallowing should see a doctor and report the problem – it could be a sign of esophageal cancer.
< br>Persistent heartburn is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), in which the muscles that control access to the stomach become damaged or weaken, causing stomach acid to rush back up the throat. People with this disorder are at a higher risk of getting esophageal cancer because the lining of the esophagus is constantly exposed to the irritating and traumatic action of stomach acid, and therefore they are advised to monitor their condition especially closely. In their case, it is important to be aware of whether the reflux is worsening, and also to notice that, in addition to heartburn, other adverse symptoms occur.
In particular, those who have GERD should consult a doctor if they have trouble swallowing saliva, water, other liquids.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Difficulty swallowing may be an early sign of esophageal cancer in people with heartburn. Malignant disease of the esophagus occurs when damaged cells multiply in this organ, turning into a tumor. Growth of the mass and causing difficulty in swallowing.
Other signs may also occur if esophageal cancer occurs.
- Chest pain.
- Feeling of pressure or burning in the chest.
- Deterioration of digestion.
- More severe manifestation of heartburn.
Earlier, the portal MedikForum.ru wrote about what signs indicate a diseased thyroid gland. 
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