In some cases, it may be a means to ease the side effects of cancer treatment. Before undergoing any treatment, it’s best to discuss it with your healthcare provider. He or she will also be able to explain the risks and side effects of each method.
The symptoms of head and neck cancer are not always obvious, but they may signal a more serious problem. A sore throat or lump on the tongue may be a sign of head and neck cancer. Other common symptoms include swelling of the face that prevents you from wearing dentures. Another symptom is a change in the voice or the onset of frequent sinus infections. Those with a history of head and neck cancer should schedule regular screenings for any of these problems. Screenings are easy and take no more than ten minutes.
Treatment for head and neck cancer will depend on the location of the cancer. Patients with cancer of the paranasal sinus, which develops in the small spaces behind the nose, may experience pain while swallowing, or difficulty hearing. Chronic sinus infections, which do not respond to antibiotic treatment, may also be an early sign of cancer. Occasionally, bleeding through the nose or mouth is an indicator of head and neck cancer. Furthermore, salivary gland cancer is often associated with numbness or paralysis of the face and may affect breathing.
Depending on the location of the cancer, additional tests may be required. The doctor may perform a physical exam, order blood tests, or a computed tomography scan. For more advanced cases, a biopsy may be required. This involves removing small pieces of tumor tissue and examining them for cancer cells. Some tumors may be HPV-infected. The results of the biopsy will usually be available within a week of the initial visit.
Smoking is the number one risk factor for head and neck cancer. Tobacco use includes chewing tobacco and snuff. Tobacco and alcohol use are both risk factors for head and neck cancer. While tobacco and alcohol use are linked to a higher risk, they do not contribute to salivary gland cancer. The best way to prevent cancer is to quit smoking and limit your intake of alcohol and tobacco. This is especially important if you’re a smoker or an alcoholic.
Radiation therapy for head and neck cancer can cause redness, swollen facial areas, and bone pain. These side effects typically go away once treatment is complete. However, radiation therapy for head and neck cancer may cause scarring and lymphedema. Most people experience no side effects after radiation therapy, but other symptoms may continue to occur, including mouth sores and sore throat. The best way to avoid these side effects is to avoid radiation therapy.
