Early detection is critical in improving survival rates. However, many patients are not aware of warning signs of this disease. Fortunately, if diagnosed early, head and neck cancers can be cured with minimal side effects. To prevent the onset of cancer, practice healthy lifestyle habits and visit your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.
Treatment for head and neck cancer varies based on tumor location and size, test results, and overall health. During treatment, the goal is to control the cancer, cure it, or ease any symptoms related to it. Before undergoing any treatment, discuss the options with your healthcare provider and know the potential side effects of the medications you are given. Depending on the location and stage of your cancer, you may receive chemotherapy or radiation. If chemotherapy and radiation do not work, you may need to switch to another treatment.
Early detection is key to preventing the disease. Because most symptoms of head and neck cancer do not appear until the later stages, it’s vital to be screened regularly for lumps and lesions. Symptoms include sore throat, a lump that does not go away, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and trouble breathing. Symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, so be sure to seek treatment if you experience any of these symptoms.
CT scan is the most informative test for detecting head and neck cancer. CT scans can distinguish between different types of cancer and also reveal lymphatic involvement. MRIs may not detect bony erosion, but CTs are superior to MRIs at detecting it. The radiologist may also be able to detect occult primary tumors. However, despite all these benefits, a CT scan is the first step in treatment.
Most cases of head and neck cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. Squamous cells make up the thin layer of tissue that covers most structures in the head and neck. However, some parts of the neck have moist tissue known as mucosa that is also made up of squamous cells. In either case, cancer cells begin in the squamous layer and grow into deeper tissue. There are two main types of head and neck cancer: carcinoma in situ and invasive squamous cell carcinoma.
Most people do not know that different parts of the body are affected by the same types of cancer. For example, paranasal sinus cancer affects the tiny hollow spaces in the bone surrounding the nose, which are also called the nasal cavity. Similarly, salivary gland cancer affects the three pairs of salivary glands in the head. These are the parotid gland, which is located in front of the ears, and the sublingual gland, which is located below the tongue.
Although there is no known cause for head and neck cancer, certain risk factors increase the risk. Exposure to tobacco and alcohol are two of the leading causes of head and neck cancer. However, people who smoke and drink alcohol are at greater risk of developing the disease than those who do not. Smoking is the most common risk factor for head and neck cancer. However, the exact cause of the disease remains unknown. Some risk factors are beyond your control and some of them can be changed, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and exposure to certain chemicals.
