What makes throat cancer so difficult to treat? While it is almost entirely preventable, the treatment depends on the type of cancer and the cause of the problem. In many cases, treatment is straightforward and may not be necessary if the disease is detected early. However, in many cases, advanced stages of the disease require more complicated treatment options. In these cases, it is important to consult with a doctor. Below, you will find some helpful information about the treatment of throat cancer.
A biopsy of the throat is performed to determine the type of cancer cells present. Squamous cell carcinoma affects the flat cells lining the throat and is the most common type of throat cancer. Treatment depends on the type of cancer cell found during the biopsy. Alcohol is the leading cause of throat cancer, so avoid drinking alcohol if you smoke. To prevent head and neck cancer, try to quit smoking. You can also quit alcohol, which is one of the best preventive measures.
Treatment for throat cancer can involve radiation or surgery to remove the affected area. Surgery can affect swallowing and speech. A speech therapist may teach you how to speak and breath again after throat cancer surgery. Some patients may also need speech therapy to regain their voice. This can be a challenging process for anyone affected by throat cancer, so it is important to be prepared for the possibility of speech difficulty. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for throat cancer.
An ENT specialist will perform a physical exam to determine the exact type of throat cancer. He will also use a laryngoscope to inspect the area. This thin, lighted tube allows the physician to see the throat from a closer angle. A biopsy may also be performed. However, a biopsy is not always necessary. If the doctor thinks that a tumor is present, they will likely recommend a biopsy. If the sample contains cancer cells, the patient will be given a prescription for medication.
Throat cancer can be caused by HPV. Over 40 types of the virus can affect the mouth and throat. When these cancer cells spread, they may cause damage to the larynx, tonsils, or liver. Getting proper treatment is critical to improve your chances of survival. There is a way to prevent this type of cancer from spreading and affecting your voice. It is best to seek medical treatment for throat cancer as early as possible to avoid its devastating effects.
While throat cancer is still quite rare, there are some risk factors that can help prevent it. For example, people who have six or more oral-sex partners have a 3.4-fold higher risk of the disease. People who have HPV infections and abnormal Pap tests have a slightly increased risk of oropharynx cancer. But the chances are still very low.
