Throat Cancer Symptoms

Cancer formed in the tissues of the pharynx is referred to as throat cancer; it begins in an area of the throat called larynx that contains the vocal chords and is used for breathing, swallowing and talking. It is a disease where malignant cells are found in tissues of the lips, mouth or tongue. The primary cause for mouth and throat cancer is smoking. People who consume excessive tobacco and alcohol are at a higher risk of developing throat cancer. Other factors include prolonged exposure to sunlight, regular inhalation of coal dust, asbestos and diesel fumes. The occurrence of throat cancer increases after age 50 and is more prominent among men rather than women.

General Symptoms

Some of the early symptoms of throat cancer are fairly general and, therefore, can easily be confused for some other condition or illness. Some of the common symptoms associated with throat cancer include:

• Chronic earaches
• Chronic sore throat
• Difficulty speaking
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Feelings of numbness in the face
• Hoarse voice
• Pain when swallowing
• Visible sores in the mouth or on the tongue

The existence of throat cancer is determined by how long these symptoms last. Chronic or persisting cases of these symptoms can indicate throat cancer. Seek medical attention when you suffer from any combination of these symptoms. While you may not have throat cancer, medical attention is necessary to rule out any alternate potentially serious underlying cause. Chronic symptoms include the following:

• Difficulty in Breathing
• Loss of speech or voice
• Disfigurement of face
• Deformities in skin
• Acute pain in swallowing

Treatment

Various factors need to be taken into consideration before deciding on the right treatment as it is rather risky as well as complex. The location of the cancer and the stage of development influence the impact the treatment may have on your speech as well.

The type of tumor and the extent to which the cancer has spread determines the treatment. Radiation therapy and surgery are the most common methods of treatment to cure throat cancer. Typically, surgery may involve complete removal of the larynx or partial cutting away of the vocal chords. A hole is made in the neck through which a tube is inserted into the windpipe in order to help the patient breathe, which could be either temporary or permanent. Radiation therapy is a process wherein cancerous cells from a localized area are destroyed by using high powered rays. Radiation therapy is coupled with surgery when there is a recurrence of the tumor after surgery. Chemotherapy is also done if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.

How to prevent throat cancer?

If you do suffer from throat cancer, early diagnosis of the condition is essential to getting the best results from treatment options. However, if you are someone who does not smoke or drink alcohol, you have greatly reduced the risk of developing throat cancer.

1. Abstain from smoking or excessive drinking as they are the primary causes for throat cancer.
2. Maintain proper dental hygiene. If you are someone who wears dentures, keep them well cleaned and rinsed. Oral irritation increases the risk of oral cancer.
3. Develop the habit of eating healthy and nutrient rich meals regularly. Consume at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables everyday. A poor diet has been linked to oral or throat cancer.
4. It has been observed that over exposure to the sun increases the risk of developing oral cancer. The ultra violet rays damage the skin on your lips. When you are out in the sun, always remember to use lip balm on your lips to protect your skin. Applying sunscreen on your face and body helps protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun.

Make a wise decision and abstain from smoking or excessive consumption of alcohol. Alternately, if you are a smoker, quit smoking. There is nothing worthwhile compared to good health and happy living. It is never too late to quit. Live a cancer-free life!