Signs and symptoms
Oesophageal and stomach cancers can have vague symptoms which can be masked by conditions such as heartburn and indigestion.
Persistent indigestion or prolonged heartburn can be considered as anything over three weeks without a clear explanation.
If you think your heartburn or indigestion is directly linked to excessive food or alcohol intake, we recommend checking in with your body at a time when you haven’t been overdoing it and make a note of whether the symptoms are still there. There are also other symptoms to look out for such as difficulty swallowing and feeling or being sick.
There are a number of reasons you could be experiencing the symptoms listed, and it doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer.
Although heartburn and indigestion are common ailments, it doesn’t mean they should be ignored. A GP can provide alternative or stronger treatments and help rule out any more serious causes of your symptoms.
If you’re worried about cancer, you can call our free Support Line on 0808 808 1010.