공지사항

Throat Cancer Injury

It could appear that a sore throat or a lump in the neck is nothing to worry about. However, these signs could be early indicators of cancer. If you notice any of these signs you should consult your physician.

The tissues that enable you to speak, swallow and breathe are affected by throat cancer. It can affect the upper or lower throat (pharynx), the larynx, as well as the glottis that holds your vocal cords.

Signs and symptoms

A sore throat that won't disappear or a lump appearing in your throat or neck are common signs of throat cancer. Other symptoms of throat cancer include difficulty swallowing, hoarseness. You may also notice changes in your voice, and a change in the appearance of your tongue. A swelling in the jaw, no explanation for it, bleeding from the gums or mouth, and Throat Cancer Injury difficulty opening your mouth are also indications of cancer in the throat.

According to the National Cancer Institute there are several types of throat cancer. Most are squamous-cell carcinoma which means they begin in thin, flat cells that line the throat and mouth. The cancers can develop in the nasopharynx (the part of the throat at the top of the esophagus and windpipe) as well as the oropharynx (the middle of the throat) or the hypopharynx (the lower part of the throat).

Cancer that has spread to the bones, lungs or any other parts of the body is referred to as metastatic cancer. If it has expanded to the lungs you may experience breathing problems or you may be coughing up blood. If the cancer has spread, you could notice a lump on your neck or shoulder. It is possible to experience discomfort in your jaw or around the tumor, or the sensation that food particles are stuck in your throat.

Diagnosis

The type and location of throat cancer will determine its prognosis. The most commonly diagnosed throat cancers are called squamous cell cancers of the pharynx or larynx, however, cancers can also start in the thyroid, esophagus or mouth. A biopsy is the only way to determine if a lump is the throat is cancerous.

Your doctor will conduct physical examination and inquire about your symptoms. They may request imaging tests, such as an CT scan or an MRI of the neck and head to find out more regarding your lungs, esophagus and nasal cavity, mouth and the lymph nodes that are located in the area surrounding the tumor. These tests can help your doctor figure out if the cancer has spread.

Other tests can include an X-ray swallow (a chalky liquid that lets your doctor view the throat and esophagus on an X-ray) or the PET scan to determine the presence of cancerous bone tissue. Blood tests can help your doctor determine the kind of cancer and the stage.

Specialists will treat your cancer. They will determine the best treatment depending on the location and stage your cancer. You may require radiation or chemotherapy, or targeted therapy. You may also need surgery or other procedures to eliminate the cancer and manage your symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment options for cancers which begin in the flat cells lining your throat or the larynx (voicebox) depend on the type and the stage of the disease. The cancers that begin at the back of the throat (oropharynx), and those that start at the front of the throat (larynx) are referred to as laryngeal cancers.

Your doctor will talk with you about the best treatment options for your condition. This may include using medicine treatment, radiation therapy, or surgery. Your doctor may recommend the use of a combination treatment.

If the cancer in your throat spreads to other areas of the head or neck or neck, you may require more aggressive treatment to reduce your risk of recurrence. There are a variety of treatment options, including chemotherapy or targeted therapy as well as immunotherapies. Your doctor will discuss these options in greater depth.

It is essential to be in close contact with your doctor to manage the symptoms of throat cancer and ensure the best quality of life. You can help by avoiding smoking or heavy drinking, as well as taking part in regular medical follow-up. It is also essential to find sources of support, including friends and family, clergy members, Throat cancer injury and cancer support groups. These can be helpful for dealing with the emotional aspects of a throat cancer diagnosis.