1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Esophageal Cancers

At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Rishi Chadha specializes in esophageal cancer care. He delivers early diagnosis, comprehensive personalized treatment plans from nutrition guidance to advanced procedures, and multidisciplinary support, ensuring compassionate expertise and sustainable outcomes for every patient.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Esophageal Cancer?

Esophageal cancer starts in the esophagus the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach.

There are two main types:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma usually forms in the upper or middle part of the esophagus
  • Adenocarcinoma often begins near where the esophagus meets the stomach

Knowing the type of cancer helps doctors plan the best treatment.

What Increases the Risk?

Certain health and lifestyle factors can raise your risk of esophageal cancer:

  • Chronic acid reflux (GERD) or Barrett's esophagus
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Obesity - extra weight increases acid reflux
  • Low intake of fruits and vegetables

Common Signs and Symptoms

Esophageal cancer can cause the following symptoms:

  • Trouble or pain when swallowing
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Chest or upper back pain
  • Ongoing heartburn or indigestion
  • Hoarse voice or frequent cough

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Esophageal Cancers?

Dr. Rishi Chadha uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your health history, acid reflux or Barrett's history, lifestyle factors, and swallowing symptoms.

Upper Endoscopy and Biopsy

An endoscope examines the esophageal lining directly and collects tissue samples for pathological confirmation.

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

This advanced scope-based ultrasound measures tumor depth and evaluates nearby lymph nodes.

Imaging Studies

  • CT scan of chest and abdomen to assess local spread.
  • PET scan to detect any distant metastases.

Multidisciplinary Review

He collaborates with oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and dietitians to finalize staging and craft your personalized treatment plan.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for esophageal cancer.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat small meals more often
  • Avoid spicy or sour foods
  • Raise your bed head 6-8 inches at night
  • Keep a healthy weight
  • Quit smoking

2. Medications

  • PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) : reduce acid
  • H2 blockers : help with mild reflux
  • Pain control : for comfort
  • Nutrition support : when eating is hard

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) : removes small tumors
  • Radiofrequency ablation : treats Barrett's tissue
  • Esophagectomy : surgery to remove part of the esophagus
  • Esophageal stents : help open a tight esophagus
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes esophageal cancer?

Smoking, heavy alcohol use, chronic acid reflux (GERD), and Barrett's esophagus are the top risk factors associated with esophageal cancer.

Is all esophageal cancer deadly?

No. Early-stage esophageal cancers can often be treated successfully. Advanced stages require more complex care but can still be managed.

What is gastroesophageal junction cancer?

This cancer arises where the esophagus meets the stomach. Treatment often combines approaches used for both esophageal and gastric cancers.

What are common warning signs?

Difficulty or pain when swallowing, persistent heartburn or indigestion, unexplained weight loss, chest or upper back pain, hoarseness, and chronic cough.

How does Dr. Chadha check for cancer?

He performs an upper endoscopy with biopsy, may add endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to assess depth, and orders CT or PET scans to look for spread.

Can food changes help?

Yes. Eating smaller meals more often, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, and elevating the head of the bed can reduce reflux and ease symptoms.

What is EMR?

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is a minimally invasive procedure to remove small, early-stage tumors without major surgery.

How long is recovery after esophagectomy?

The typical hospital stay is 5-10 days. Full recovery including returning to normal activities can take several weeks.

Will insurance cover treatment?

Most insurance plans cover diagnostic tests and treatments. Our team will work with you to verify your benefits and streamline approval.

When should I see Dr. Chadha?

If you're experiencing difficulty swallowing, persistent heartburn with unexplained weight loss, or any concerning symptoms, call now to schedule an evaluation.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

IBD-Friendly Snacks to Munch On

Read More
Abdominal Pain

All About Liver Elastography

Read More
Abdominal Pain

8 Ways to Remedy Acid Reflux Without Medication

Read More