There are early symptoms associated with throat cancer that we need to pay attention to. Although some of them may be an indication of other diseases, their concurrence or recurrence is something that we cannot ignore.
According to studies, the worldwide incidence of laryngeal cancer is estimated at 3.9 per 100,000 inhabitants, with general mortality close to 2.0. However, there are countries like Spain where the figures are higher.
It is considered that prevention strategies, as well as timely diagnosis, are crucial to reducing this mortality. However, the initial symptoms of throat cancer may be non-specific. Hence the importance of knowing them.
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Throat cancer: what it is and what causes it
Throat cancer is a disease that refers to malignant tumors that form in the area of the pharynx, larynx, or tonsils; that is to say, everything that we understand as the throat.
Although it can affect anyone, you are more likely to develop it when you smoke tobacco (according to studies ) or suffer an attack from the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Knowing the risk factors and specific symptoms can help to go to the consultation on time. In this sense, it is clear that early detection is decisive in increasing the chances of treatment success, as explained by the American Cancer Society.
To obtain an early diagnosis, knowing the possible initial symptoms of throat cancer and seeing a doctor for an evaluation is essential.
Nine initial symptoms of throat cancer
1. Hoarseness or voice changes
Abnormal growth of cells in the throat can start on the vocal cords; for this reason, one of the first manifestations of the disease is notorious changes in the tone of the voice.
The prolongation of the hoarseness for more than three weeks or the sudden voice change are sufficient reasons to consult the specialist. Sometimes its origin is infections in the area or problems associated with smoking; Despite this, it must be considered that it may be due to throat cancer.
2. Sore throat
It is challenging to consider a simple sore throat as a symptom of throat cancer. Often this discomfort results from a joint infection or disease of the respiratory system.
However, when it becomes persistent or appears intermittently, it is essential to see a doctor to find out why it originates. As the MSD Manual indicates, it is an atypical manifestation of cancer, at least in its initial stages, and manifests during swallowing.
The appearance of tumors in the area can lead to the recurrence of this symptom. It manifests itself more intensely when swallowing or straining the voice.
3. Constant lousy breath
When bad breath doesn’t go away with good oral hygiene habits, there may be an untreated underlying condition causing it. Although you don’t always have to turn on cancer alarms, this symptom shouldn’t be ruled out.
Patients who develop this disease often have great difficulty controlling the bad smell from their mouths. This persists even if they use rinses and unique products.
Other causes of persistent halitosis include periodontal disease, ulcers, infections, and the use of some drugs that induce xerostomia (dry mouth). This is revealed by a study published in Medifam.
4. Choking sensation
The sensation of suffocation, also known as dyspnea or shortness of breath, is a symptom that can alert an obstruction in the airways. It appears as a product of a severe system infection but is also due to tumors.
5. Lumps on the neck
The appearance of lumps in the neck can have various causes. In this particular case, it usually occurs because the tumor spreads to the lymph nodes in the throat area. This signal should be considered a reason for immediate medical consultation since it originates when the cancer worsens.
According to experts from the American Cancer Association, other possible signs and symptoms of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer include:
- lumps or thickening on the cheek, a lump or mass in the neck
6. Need to cough
Patients with respiratory diseases or allergies often have recurrent coughs due to the immune system’s response to the presence of foreign agents.
When a problem occurs in the throat, a structure part of the respiratory system, this symptom can be more chronic. At first, it manifests as a dry cough accompanied by irritation. Later, when the tumor advances, it can ulcerate and cause bleeding.
7. Loud breathing
When the tumor is not intervened promptly, the cancer cells continue to divide and cause severe damage to the tissues in the area. Consequently, an obstruction of the respiratory ducts occurs, manifesting in a strange sound every time the person inhales.
According to a publication in the MSD Manual, this noise is known as “laryngeal stridor” and results from narrowing the opening between the vocal cords. If left untreated as soon as possible, the cancer can completely block it, leading to complications such as suffocation and death.
8. Difficulty swallowing
Most throat cancer patients begin to experience significant weight loss due to difficulties chewing, swallowing, or swallowing food.
The presence of tumors narrows the opening of the esophagus and causes food to get stuck when swallowed. In turn, muscle weakening occurs, which increases episodes of acid reflux.
9. Other possible initial symptoms of throat cancer
In addition to those mentioned, some other initial symptoms of throat cancer may occur, such as the following:
- earache
- sores that do not heal
- weight loss
Doubts? Do not forget to consult with your doctor!
If you present several of these initial symptoms of throat cancer and have concerns about your health, see your doctor for an evaluation as soon as possible.
To determine it, the doctor will recommend an analysis with an endoscope or imaging tests, among others. The professional will tell you if it is throat cancer or not and what would be the best treatment option for your case.