What do head and neck cancer have in common? As the name indicates, they advocate that you combine it. And the symptoms vary depending on the location of the cancer.
“When doctors say ‘head and neck cancer’, they usually talk about cancer species that start in the mouth, neck, voice box, sinuses or salivary,” said Leila J. Mady, Md, a board-certified otolaryngologist (ent) and head and string surgeons at John’s Hopkins Medicine. “It usually does not include a brain, eye or thyroid cancer.”
Head and neck cancer accounts for almost 4% of all cancer cases in the United States. Certain people have an increased risk, including those with tobacco and alcohol consumption. And human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus that almost everyone has, can also cause head and neck cancer. Even if you don’t have a high risk, there are some warning signs you should pay attention to.
We turned to Mady to find the most common symptoms of head and neck cancer and when a health service provider (HCP) visited.
9 symptoms of head and neck cancer
1. Lumps or bumps on the neck
Suspicious lumps are exactly that – suspicious. If you notice something unusual, such as B. a swelling or an unusual lump on the neck, jaw or mouth, it is time to be rated by an HCP.
2. Persistent sore throat
A sore throat is a good example of a head and neck cancer symptom, which is sometimes thrown as an everyday problem. But sometimes it is a sign of something more serious, especially if your sore throat does not disappear or improves after two or three weeks.
3. Oral shops, ulcers or spots
Dentists are sometimes the first stop on the trip to find out symptoms of oral cavity cancer. Mouth ulcers themselves may not be too worrying, but there could be cause for concern if they do not heal alone. Pay attention to oral ulcers and red or white spots that do not heal.
4. Difficulties to speak, swallow or breathe
Head and neck cancer are also summarized because the symptoms can influence speaking, swallowing or breathing. This can even cause pain. You could also feel like having something in your throat.
5. Singing changes or hoarseness
Similar to sore throat, head and neck cancer can cause a hoarse voice. Changes to your speech could continue to examine. This could indicate that head and neck cancer influences their speech.
6. Unexplained pain in the head or neck
There are all possible explanations for pain in the head and neck – including teeth, ears, chin and so on. If you have pain, head or neck – especially if it is only one side – it cannot get to the bottom, a more comprehensive test is required.
7. Unexplained bleeding from the nose or mouth
Head and neck cancer can affect the nose so that the symptoms can include nosebleeds and a stuffy or blocked nose that does not disappear. Any unexplained bleeding – whether from the nose or mouth – could justify medical help. This also applies to the coughing of blood.
8. Chronic sinus infections
Chronic sinus infections or sinusitis could indicate nasopharyngeal cancer and nasal and paranasal sinus cancer. This is particularly worrying when sinus infections of the antibiotic treatment resist.
9. Frequent headache
Another symptom that can be given as an everyday problem. Headaches are alarming when they occur frequently. There are many possible causes of headache, so it is important to see a doctor to reach the cause.
When should see symptoms for a HCP for head and neck cancer
If you are on the fence to make an appointment with an HCP, Mady does not recommend waiting for too long. Early detection saves life – the survival rates are higher in earlier stages.
“If the symptoms take more than two or three weeks, it is important to see a doctor,” said Mady. “Based on a family doctor or dentist, a good first step is, but an ENT specialist is the best next step when there are concerns.” To make a diagnosis, your doctor can carry out an examination, order imaging or carry out a biopsy.
Mady’s farewell word: do what you can do to reduce your risk. “Head and neck cancer are often very treatable when they are caught early,” she said.
This educational resource was created with the support of Merck.
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