Anyone have weight loss before diagnosis with esophogeal cancer?

[tracy100]

Hi, I'm new here. My doctor is sending me to a GI specialist because I've lost so much weight over the last year. Mostly loss of appetite. I am 5' 2 and weigh about 87 lb. My normal is 105 to 110. I'm over 50 yrs. old.
Though I don't drink anymore, I used to be a heavy drinker, and a 3 pack a day smoker. I also have a long history of acid reflux.
About a year ago, some foods would get stuck in my throat, so I have been careful about what I eat. I ate some polish sausage last week, and that got stuck.
I don't know what to think. Maybe I'm fine, but the weight loss has me concerned. I don't know if the timpng of the weight loss has anything to do with the possibility of having something serious ??? I have 2 more weeks before I see the GI Dr.. I've already been waiting a month. Anyone had weight loss before diagnosis?

[brainman]

Hi Tracy. I am so sorry about your health concerns. Yes, weight loss of very often associated with cancer. However, this in no way means you have cancer. There are so many other things that can be contributing to your weight loss. You are doing the right thing by going to your doctor and following his/her advice. Good luck. Let us know what you find out.

[tracy100]

Thanks for the quick reply. I live in Tennessee too, and will be going to a very good hospital in Nashville, where my husband has been in treatment for lung cancer, so I know I will be in good hands.

[david6369]

Esophageal cancer usually originates in the inner layers of the lining of the esophagus and grows outward. In time, the tumor can obstruct the passage of food and liquid, making swallowing painful and difficult. Since most patients are not diagnosed until the late stages of the disease, esophageal cancer is associated with poor quality of life and low survival rates. LINK REMOVED AS PER FORUM POLICY