Head and neck cancers make up 4% of all cancers in the United States and affect the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, voice box and salivary glands.
A cancer diagnosis is difficult news, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Our team is here to guide you through the next steps and ensure you receive the best treatment for your needs.
What Are the Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancers?
The most common symptom of these cancers is a sore throat that does not improve. You should make an appointment with an ENT if you’re experiencing:
- Chronic cough (especially if you are coughing up blood)
- Hoarseness or other changes in your voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Lumps on the neck
- sore throat lasting more than a month
- Unexplained weight loss
Who Is Most at Risk for These Cancers?
Risk factors for head and neck cancers include:
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol use
- A diet high in red meats and processed food
- Acid reflux
- Exposure to industrial toxins
- Viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus
How Are These Conditions Diagnosed?
In addition to examining your head and neck, your doctor will ask about the extent and duration of your symptoms. Other diagnostic tests may include a biopsy of tissue in the head or neck, a low-dose radiation CT scan, an MRI or a PET scan.
What Treatments Are Available?
Our team at Puget Sound Ear Nose and Throat will work with you to determine the best treatment for your needs. Factors influencing treatment include:
- Tumor size
- Tumor location
- If the tumor has spread
Depending on what will work best for you, our specialist may recommend radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy or a combination of these procedures. We will explain how these procedures work and what to expect from them to make sure you feel confident during this process.
If you are experiencing symptoms of head and neck cancers, effective diagnosis and finding high-quality treatment are important steps. Our caring team of specialists at Puget Sound Ear Nose and Throat will create a personalized treatment plan to help you navigate this time.
Call Puget Sound ENT for more information or to schedule an appointment.