Huge Lymph Node and Excess Saliva
The rate of recovery from esophageal cancer depends on how much the lymphatic system is affected. Lymph nodes become swollen in areas above the collar bone (supraclavicular nodes) and neck (cervical lymph nodes. It can also occur in other areas, but it is prominent in these two locations. An increase in the number of metastatic lymph nodes reduces the chances of recovery. Squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma can spread (through the esophageal wall) to cervical, thoracic, and abdominal lymph nodes, irrespective of the tumor location.
The body produces excess saliva while trying to make food pass through the esophagus quickly. The saliva produced is usually more than what is needed. As a result, patients spit when they talk and feel discomfort in their mouths. The glands in the mouth produce more saliva to compensate for troubles experienced when swallowing.