What are the symptoms of head and neck cancer?
Head and neck cancer is generally highly treatable if caught early, but some of the earliest signs may be difficult to recognize. In this quick Medical Minute, Head and Neck Surgeon Mariangela Rivera, MD, explained symptoms of head and neck cancer to watch for and what risk factors might make you more likely to develop head and neck cancer.
“Head and neck cancer includes cancer of the mouth, the throat, the thyroid, parathyroids and the skin of the head and neck,” said Dr. Rivera.
Because of the different types of cancer that can develp in these areas, symptoms of head and neck cancer are varied. They include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- A lump or bump along the throat that is new
- Bleeding from the throat
- Mouth sores
- A red or white patch on the cheek lining, gums or tongue
- An ongoing sore throat that doesn’t heal
- Changes to your voice
- Numbness of the tongue
- Difficulty swallowing
- Painful or difficul chewing
If you recognize any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor and schedule a head and neck cancer screening so your provider can take a look and potentially request a biopsy to be sure.
“Risk factors for head and neck cancer include use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco and more, drinking alcohol, sun exposure or a history of HPV infection,” said Dr. Rivera.
Dr. Rivera’s advice on avoiding head and neck cancer? Avoid alcohol and tobacco, avoid time spent unprotected in the sun and wear sunscreen every single day.
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