The experience of dysphagia and its effect on the quality of life of patients with oesophageal cancer

This qualitative study was designed to explore the experience of dysphagia in oesophageal cancer and how this impacts on quality of life. The aim of the study was to add to the knowledge and comprehension of this poorly understood symptom. Data was collected through in-depth interview and administration of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-OES24 quality of life tools with six people with incurable oesophageal cancer who had dysphagia. The interviews were tape-recorded and then transcribed verbatim for each participant. Through a thematic analysis of the interview data and a descriptive analysis of the questionnaires a detailed description of the experience of dysphagia and its impact on quality of life was obtained. Five basic themes emerged from the participant's accounts and these were recognizing dysphagia, the physical experience, the emotions evoked, the impact on social life and dysphagia and treatment. In conclusion dysphagia is a troublesome symptom which affects all aspects of quality of life.