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ENT DOCTOR BLOG
Posts for tag: neck cancer
Cancers that are categorized as head and neck encompass the areas from the nasal passage and sinuses in the head, down to the opening of the esophagus at the base of the throat. Also known as squamous cell carcinomas, this type of cancer affects the mucous membranes lining the nose, mouth, and throat. Treatment for this form of cancer is managed by an otolaryngologist, or ear, nose and throat doctor (ENT).
Types of Head and Neck Cancers
- Oral Cavity - lips, tongue, gums, cheek lining, floor of the mouth, and the hard palette (roof) of the mouth
- Pharynx (throat) - nasopharynx (behind the nose), oropharynx (area made up of the soft palette, back third of the tongue, and the tonsils), hypopharynx (bottom or the pharynx, which connects to the esophagus)
- Larynx - (voice box, vocal cords)
- Sinuses and nasal cavity
- Salivary glands
A: Many of the symptoms for oral and throat cancers are similar to benign conditions. ENT doctors advise patients to pay attention to unexplained symptoms that persist beyond a few weeks, do not respond to treatment or clear up and then return frequently. The most common set of symptoms include:
- Sores in the mouth, gums or tongue that do not heal
- Chronic sore throat
- Hoarseness or changes in the voice
- Swelling and bleeding from the throat or nose
- Difficulty breathing, speaking or swallowing
- Chronic headaches or earaches
- Hearing impairment
- Chronic sinus infections that do not clear up with antibiotics
- Numbness and/or facial paralysis
A: While this type of cancer can technically affect anyone, it is more common in men over the age of 50.
Q: Are head and neck cancers preventable?
A: The most common cause of oral cancers is tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. Abstaining from tobacco use (cigarettes and nicotine products) and avoiding or drinking alcohol in moderation is highly recommended. Good oral hygiene with daily flossing and brushing and regular dental check-ups, as well as a healthy diet can also lower the risk. Head and neck cancers can be treated successfully when caught early. Reporting suspicious symptoms to an ENT specialist as soon as possible is important for early detection.
Q: What are the treatment options for head and neck cancers?
A: Treatment varies from patient to patient depending on the type of cancer, location, stage at time of diagnosis and the patient's overall health. Most cancers are typically treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and/or targeted drug therapy.
Head and neck cancers comprise about 3 percent of all cancer diagnoses. While most prevalent among men over age 50, these 
malignancies may be found in adults of all ages and walks of life. The most common risk factors are excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use--either smoking or chewing tobacco. Scientific evidence indicates an association with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) as well.
Dr. William Bond, board-certified otolaryngologist and Diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology, diagnoses and treats various head and neck cancers in his Washington, D.C. office. He wants people to know the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers because, while deadly, these malignancies can be successfully treated and cured if discovered in their early stages.
Signs and Symptoms
These cancers usually begin in the moist linings inside of structures in the head and neck. As such, they typically are found in the:
- Mouth
- Pharynx, or hollow tube between the mouth, esophagus, and respiratory system
- Larynx, or voice box
- Sinuses and nasal cavity
- Salivary glands
Mainly, these cancerous lesions are composed of flat squamous cells, a term most people recall from reading about skin cancers.
Many patients exhibit distinct signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers. Others experience symptoms that are barely noticeable or that mimic other diseases or conditions. So, it's important to keep routine physical examination appointments with one's primary care physician and dentist.
Signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers include:
- A persistent sore throat
- Hoarseness
- A change in denture fit
- A lump or swelling which does not resolve within two weeks
- Bleeding in the mouth
- Changes in swallowing
- Pain in the throat or ear
- Persistent cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Numbness or swelling around the chin or jaw
Your Washington, D.C. ENT doctor diagnoses head and neck cancers from symptoms, physical examination, X-rays and other sophisticated imaging such as MRI and CAT scan.
Treatment
Dr. Bond has many skills and treatments available to treat and cure these cancers and also to alleviate their symptoms. Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, singly or in combination, effect cures, particularly with an early diagnosis. Of course, factors such as the patient's overall health, age, and stage of the tumor play into the choice of treatment.
Contact Us
If you are concerned about a change in your throat, nose, mouth or other areas of the head and neck, please contact William R. Bond, Jr. MD for a consultation. Your concerns and best health are his highest priority. Call (202) 726-7770 for an appointment.
