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ENT DOCTOR BLOG
Posts for tag: neck
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.
