More than 55,000 people develop head and neck cancer each year, and while it’s a preventable and in some cases a treatable condition, it can be quite dangerous. Individuals who are diagnosed with head and neck cancer are usually smokers, and despite using spit or smokeless tobacco, the ramifications are still present. There are many symptoms of head and neck cancer to be aware of, so if you are at a high risk of developing this disease, be aware of any of the following changes:

Cancers of the head and neck are further categorized by the area of the head or neck in which they begin like the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx and salivary glands.

The Cause of Snoring

Alcohol and tobacco use (like smoking and chewing tobacco)
HPV virus (the cancer-causing types)
Occupational exposure (things like construction dust, asbestos, synthetic fibers and formaldehyde)
Radiation exposure (previous radiation treatments to the head or neck)
Epstein-Barr virus infection
Family history (if you have any family members with head/neck cancers)
Paan (also known as betel quid) use in the mouth has been strongly associated with an increased risk of oral cancer

A persistent earache when swallowing often accompanies neck cancer. If you also experience hoarseness or notice a lump in your neck, visit us right away.

Blood in your saliva or mucous for more than several days. While this could be the result of something else, it’s best to seek medical treatment anyway.

A lump in your neck is a common sign of cancer. This is often where the disease develops before infiltrating the lymph nodes, so any noticeable growths that last longer than two weeks should receive medical care.

Growths in the mouth, even those that are painless, may be an indication of cancer. Bleeding may occur during later stages of the disease, and many times patients aren’t concerned due to the benign nature of these growths.

Neck cancer typically doesn’t cause changes in the voice, but any significant hoarseness or voice change should be addressed by an otolaryngologist.

Problems with swallowing can sometimes be linked to cancer of the throat or esophagus. If you have trouble eating and drinking normally, visit our office for an examination.

The most common type of head and neck cancer occurs on the surface of the skin and shows up as melanoma or basal cell cancer. Remember to use proper sun protection when outside and note any changes in moles or skin discoloration.

Diagnosing and treating head and neck cancer in its early stages gives patients the best chances for successful treatment. If you have any of the above symptoms or are concerned about a specific symptom you’ve noticed, please contact our office today.