Silent symptom of cancer that millions live with, without realising. When should you visit doctor?
When to Seek Medical Advice
Esophageal cancer, although not among the most widely recognized forms of cancer, remains one of the deadliest. Ranked as the 10th most common cancer worldwide, its threat lies in its subtlety. Often, individuals may not notice any obvious symptoms until the disease has significantly progressed, making early detection difficult and survival rates lower.In fact, as per Unilad, a 2017 study revealed that nearly 90% of those diagnosed with esophageal cancer do not survive beyond a decade.This cancer begins in the lining of the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. According to the Cleveland Clinic, tumors in this area tend not to show noticeable signs early on. Once symptoms do appear, the cancer is often in an advanced stage, complicating treatment options.Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic acid reflux, is widespread and typically viewed as manageable. However, experts are warning that persistent symptoms could mask something more serious. While occasional acid reflux is a common experience — particularly after heavy meals or lying down — chronic episodes may contribute to esophageal damage and raise cancer risk.In a widely viewed social media video, Dr. Wendi LeBrett outlined several symptoms associated with chronic acid reflux that could potentially be linked to esophageal cancer. She explained that although many with acid reflux experience heartburn — a burning sensation in the chest — a significant portion, around one in three, may not display these typical signs.Instead, these individuals may suffer from persistent nighttime coughing, breathing issues due to acid irritating the airways, or even worsening asthma. Difficulty swallowing and unexplained dental issues, such as yellowing teeth, cracks, and increased sensitivity, may also suggest prolonged exposure to stomach acid.The Cleveland Clinic stresses that acid reflux, particularly when it becomes chronic, can cause inflammation and irritation in the esophagus. While these effects are often dismissed as minor discomforts, they can cause lasting damage over time.Medical professionals advise that anyone experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms — especially those with unexplained coughing, difficulty breathing, or trouble swallowing — should consult a healthcare provider. Dentists may also detect early signs through acid-related dental damage, making routine checkups important.As esophageal cancer often lacks clear early indicators, understanding the potential connections between persistent acid reflux and cancer is critical. Timely medical intervention could make a significant difference in outcomes.
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Hindustan Times
19 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Gastroenterologist says ‘chewing sugar-free gum after meals, sleeping on left' reduces heartburn; 7 natural remedies
A painful, burning feeling or discomfort in the middle of your chest, possibly involving the neck and throat, that may worsen when lying down, is known as heartburn. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it is caused by stomach acid rising into your oesophagus (reflux), which runs through your chest, close to your heart. Chewing sugar-free gum after eating increases saliva production, which helps neutralise and wash away acid. (Freepik) Also Read | Cardiologist says 'ECG only gives 30% information about condition of your heart'; shares 2 powerful tests you must do 7 natural heartburn remedies While people often resort to medications to cure themselves of heartburn, did you know there are a few natural heartburn remedies, too, that you can practice at home? In a post shared on July 30, Dr Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist based in the US, shared 7 natural heartburn remedies. He also backed the tips with science by citing studies. Let's find out: 1. Chewing gum after meals clears acid Chewing sugar-free gum after eating increases saliva production, which helps neutralise and wash away acid that has crept up into the oesophagus. The same was researched by experts in a November 2005 study - 'The effect of chewing sugar-free gum on gastro-esophageal reflux' - shared on PubMed. 2. Walking after meals reduces reflux Citing a March 2025 study, the gastroenterologist said, 'Taking a light walk after eating helps to significantly reduce reflux episodes and has even been shown in clinical trials to improve the effectiveness of acid-reducing medications.' 3. Belly breathing stops acid from rising Practising diaphragmatic (belly) breathing can strengthen the muscular valve between the stomach and oesophagus, improving its ability to prevent acid from coming back up. He backed the claim with a 2011 study: Positive effect of abdominal breathing exercise on gastroesophageal reflux disease: a randomised, controlled study. 4. Papaya has enzymes to fight reflux 'Beyond basic nutrition, papaya acts as a 'functional food' thanks to its unique enzymes. The star enzyme, papain, is well-known for its ability to help break down proteins, which can ease symptoms of indigestion and support overall digestive wellness,' Dr Salhab said. 5. Sleeping on your left side helps at night Per an October 2023 study, he stated, 'Due to the shape and position of the stomach, sleeping on your left side keeps the junction between the stomach and oesophagus above the level of stomach acid, reducing nocturnal reflux.' 6. Vaping and alcohol cause ulcers Per the gastroenterologist, both alcohol and the chemicals in e-cigarettes can relax the lower oesophageal sphincter, the critical barrier that keeps stomach acid where it belongs, leading to increased reflux. 7. Weight loss can cure acid reflux 'For those who are overweight, losing excess body weight can significantly reduce or even completely resolve symptoms of acid reflux by decreasing abdominal pressure on the stomach,' he said. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
News18
2 days ago
- News18
Feminine Hygiene Tips: Avoid Shaving Pubic Hair In These 4 Situations
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Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Why sleeping on your back is the worst, according to science
You've probably heard that sleeping on your back is 'good for posture' or helps prevent wrinkles. But recent medical research, including a New York Post article, suggests otherwise. For most adults, sleeping on your back might actually be the worst position for breathing, digestion, and even brain health. It can increase snoring, trigger sleep apnea, and affect how the brain clears waste while you sleep. While it may be helpful for some people with spinal issues, it's far from the healthiest choice for everyone. Before assuming it's the ideal sleep position, it's worth knowing what science really says. No myths, no wellness fluff, just straightforward facts that might make you rethink the way you settle in for the night. Why sleeping on your back is the worst for sleep apnea Let's start with the big one: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It's one of the most serious sleep disorders, and more than 50 percent of people with OSA have what's known as positional OSA. That means their symptoms get significantly worse when they sleep on their backs. A clinical study published in Sleep and Breathing found that sleeping in the supine position can dramatically increase the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which measures how often breathing is disrupted during sleep. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: Unsold Sofas at Bargain Prices (Prices May Surprise You) Sofas | Search Ads Search Now Undo In contrast, side-sleeping lowered those numbers substantially. Simply put, sleeping on your back can be the worst position for your airway, especially if you're already dealing with apnea-related issues. Switching sides isn't just more comfortable, it could actually save your sleep. Why sleeping on your back is the worst for acid reflux Got heartburn at night? Your sleep position might be to blame. Multiple studies have shown that sleeping on your left side can significantly reduce acid exposure in the esophagus, helping relieve nighttime heartburn and GERD symptoms. On the flip side, lying flat on your back tends to make reflux worse by allowing stomach acid to flow more easily into the esophagus. A 2022 study published in Sleep Medicine Research confirmed this strong connection between sleep posture and nighttime reflux. If you regularly wake up with a burning sensation or bitter taste, switching to your left side could offer real relief, no medication required, just smarter sleeping. Why sleeping on your back is the worst for brain detox Your brain has a 'clean-up crew' called the glymphatic system. It clears out waste like amyloid-β—stuff linked to Alzheimer's. The catch? It works best when you sleep on your side. A 2015 study in Journal of Neuroscience used MRI imaging on animals and found that side-sleeping led to better brain waste clearance than research suggests that your sleep position may not just impact how rested you feel, but also how well your brain ages. So if long-term brain health is on your radar, turning to your side could be a smart move for your future self. Why sleeping on your back is the worst for snoring (and relationships) Let's be honest: nobody wants to sleep next to a chainsaw. And if you sleep on your back, you might just become one. When you lie flat, gravity pulls your tongue and soft tissues backward, relaxing your airway muscles and narrowing your throat. This makes it much harder for air to flow smoothly, especially during deep sleep. The result? Loud, persistent snoring that can ruin your sleep and your partner's sanity. For people with sleep apnea, this position can even cause breathing pauses that seriously impact health over time. 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Why sleeping on your back is the worst when it comes to overall sleep quality Side sleeping isn't just better for your health, it can actually help you sleep more deeply. A 2023 observational study found that people who slept on their sides experienced longer REM cycles and woke up less often during the night. In contrast, those who slept on their backs had more frequent sleep disruptions, especially individuals dealing with breathing problems or gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux. The side position supports better airway stability and digestion, both of which contribute to more restful, uninterrupted sleep. So if you're waking up groggy or tossing and turning, simply changing how you sleep could make a noticeable difference in your overall sleep quality. How to stop sleeping on your back: Tape or sew a tennis ball to the back of your shirt- This old-school trick works surprisingly well. 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From reduced snoring and reflux to better circulation and deeper REM cycles, the benefits of side sleeping are backed by solid science. If restful, healthy sleep is the goal, turning sideways might just be the simplest fix. Also read| 5 reasons why your blood pressure medication is not working
