Diagnosis
Most people start by seeing a GP when they have symptoms.
You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you, or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.
Even if you're worried about what the symptoms might be, don't delay seeing them. If you're finding it difficult to get an appointment you should keep trying as your worry is unlikely to go away if you don’t see someone about it.
Before the appointment
It might be useful to make some notes about what you're experiencing to remind you what to tell your GP.
You might want to mention when your symptoms started, whether they are worse at certain times of day or night, or after eating, for example.
What to expect at your appointment
At the appointment, your GP will ask you about your symptoms and examine you.
They will decide whether to refer you for tests, such as a test to look inside your oesophagus (an endoscopy).
If you are not referred for tests, you can still return to your GP if the symptoms return or do not go away.
Your GP should arrange for you to see a specialist if you have symptoms that could be due to oesophageal cancer.
They might refer you straight to the hospital for tests.
If you are referred to a specialist these are some of the tests they might do:
- Blood tests
- An endoscopy
- A CT scan
- An endoscopic ultrasound
- A PET-CT scan
- A laparoscopy
If you do have cancer, your specialist will speak to you after making a diagnosis and help you understand what treatment options are best for you.