Symptom 2: Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia) – A Sign of MTC Progression
Progressing MTC can lead to dysphagia, a medical term referring to difficulty swallowing. This issue arises when the growing tumor begins to press against the esophagus, the tube connecting the throat with the stomach. As the cancer progresses and the tumor size increases, this pressure can intensify, exacerbating the difficulty in swallowing.
Dysphagia can present in several ways. Some individuals may feel as though food is stuck in their throat or chest, a sensation known as ‘odynophagia‘. Others might experience pain or discomfort when swallowing. These symptoms can interfere significantly with daily life, affecting nutrition and overall wellbeing.
The severity of dysphagia can vary widely. For some, it may be mild, presenting as a minor inconvenience during meals. For others, it can be severe, impeding the ability to swallow altogether. It’s important to note that any persistent difficulty in swallowing should prompt a visit to the healthcare provider. Dysphagia is a symptom that requires immediate evaluation to rule out serious underlying conditions like MTC.
When patients present with dysphagia, doctors may conduct several tests to determine the cause. These may include a barium swallow study or an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), which involve visualizing the esophagus and the upper part of the digestive system. If an obstructing mass like a tumor is identified, further investigations like a biopsy may be needed to confirm MTC. (2)
