Throat Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
In throat cancer, the throat (pharynx) or voice box (larynx) is the site where the cancer develops. The throat is a muscular tube that begins behind the nose and ends in the neck. It is located just below the throat and contains the vocal cords that produce sound when you speak. The tonsils, vocal cords, and epiglottis can all be affected by throat cancer.
Causes and Risk Factors of Throat Cancer
The exact cause of throat cancer is not known, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing it. Some of the common risk factors are:
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Smoking tobacco or using smokeless tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco or snuff.
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Drinking alcohol excessively, especially in combination with tobacco use.
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Having human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause warts in the mouth and throat.
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Having a family history of throat cancer or other head and neck cancers.
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Being exposed to certain chemicals or substances, such as asbestos, nickel, or formaldehyde.
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Having a poor diet that is low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed meats and salt.
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Having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is a condition that causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus and throat.
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Having a weakened immune system due to certain diseases or medications.
Symptoms and Signs of Throat Cancer
Throat cancer can cause various symptoms and signs, depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Some of the common symptoms and signs are:
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A change in your voice, such as hoarseness, raspiness, or difficulty speaking clearly.
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Trouble swallowing or feeling like something is stuck in your throat.
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A sore throat that does not go away or gets worse over time.
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A lump or mass in your neck or throat that can be felt or seen.
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A cough that is persistent or contains blood.
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Ear pain or hearing loss.
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Weight loss that is unexplained or unintentional.
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Swollen lymph nodes in your neck or collarbone area.
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Breathing problems, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, or noisy breathing.
The best way to diagnose throat cancer is through a physical examination, a biopsy, and imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans.
Treatment Options for Throat Cancer
The treatment for throat cancer depends on the type, location, stage, and grade of the cancer, as well as your overall health and preferences. The main treatment options are:
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Surgery, which involves removing the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue. Sometimes, the entire voice box or part of the throat may need to be removed, which can affect your ability to speak and swallow.
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Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays or particles to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Radiation therapy can be given externally or internally, depending on the location and size of the tumor.
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Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. Chemotherapy can be given alone or in combination with radiation therapy or targeted therapy.
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Targeted therapy, which uses drugs that target specific molecules or genes that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapy can be given alone or in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
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Immunotherapy, which uses drugs that stimulate your immune system to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy can be given alone or in combination with other treatments.
As a consequence of throat cancer treatment, you may experience pain, infection, bleeding, swelling, dry mouth, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, skin problems, and nerve damage. In order to cope with the side effects, your doctor will monitor your condition and provide supportive care.
Prevention Tips for Throat Cancer
Throat cancer can be prevented or detected early by following some tips, such as:
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Avoiding tobacco use or quitting if you are a smoker or a user of smokeless tobacco products.
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Limiting alcohol intake or avoiding it altogether.
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Practicing safe sex and getting vaccinated against HPV if you are eligible.
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Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables and low in processed meats and salt.
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Maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active.
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Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals or substances, such as asbestos, nickel, or formaldehyde.
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Seeking medical attention if you have chronic or frequent acid reflux or heartburn.
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Getting regular check-ups and screenings for throat cancer, especially if you have a high risk or a family history of it.
You should talk to your doctor or a specialist if you have any concerns or questions about throat cancer. Throat cancer can be a serious and even life-threatening condition, but it can be treated successfully if caught early and treated appropriately.
