Some of the treatments used for the management of esophageal cancer can have negative side effects. Your team of specialists will work with you to manage these side effects as much as possible.
Nutritional Side Effects
Many people with esophageal cancer have trouble swallowing, either because of the tumor or as a side effect of treatment. As a result, some patients may need to receive extra nutrition through a vein or feeding tube, which may be placed by the radiology or surgical team.
Side Effects of Radiation
Radiation therapy to the esophagus can have some side effects, including skin reactions that resemble sunburn, accidental damage to the lungs or heart, and painful and difficult swallowing.
Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is effective at killing cancer cells, but it can kill normal cells too, resulting in side effects. Your doctor will adjust your regimen to reduce side effects as much as possible. Many side effects can be managed with symptom management medications.
Side effects of chemotherapy can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hair loss
- Sores inside the mouth
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
- Increased chance of infection (because of low white cell counts)
- Tendency to bruise easily
Learn more about esophageal cancer:
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