Most head and neck cancers can often be prevented since they’re closely linked to tobacco use and alcohol consumption. And when detected early, these cancers are typically treatable.
You might notice symptoms such as pain when swallowing, difficulty breathing, ear pain, a lump in the neck lasting more than two weeks, growths in the mouth, or bleeding from the mouth, nose, or throat. Below is an overview of common head and neck cancers:
Hypopharyngeal Cancer
This cancer develops in the lower part of the pharynx — a tube running from the back of the nose to the windpipe and esophagus. Symptoms often include a persistent sore throat and ear pain. Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam, CT or MRI scans, chest or esophagus x-rays, and a biopsy. Most cases are squamous cell carcinomas, which are thin, flat cells lining the area. Unfortunately, early symptoms are rare, so it’s often diagnosed at advanced stages. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove cancerous tissue, followed by radiation and/or chemotherapy.
Laryngeal Cancer
This cancer affects the larynx, or voice box. Common signs include pain swallowing, trouble breathing, ear pain, a lump in the neck, persistent cough, hoarseness, or voice changes. Over 90% of laryngeal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which tend to respond well to surgery and radiation or chemotherapy treatments.