Tenderness over Bones and Persistent Cough
Cancers can spread to bones (bone metastases) and cause pain and softness of bones. Fractures can also occur in weakened areas when little force is experienced. The spread of cancer to bones can also cause an increase in the amount of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia); this causes muscle cramps, weakness, and mental confusion. Esophageal cancer can also spread to the lungs, stomach, lymphatic system, and other body parts.
Approximately 20 percent of people with esophageal cancer experience persistent cough. It mainly occurs after eating and is dry. When usual medications used to treat cough are not yielding results, it indicates the presence of cancer.