Compared with other cancers, throat cancer is relatively uncommon. Warning signs of the disease include the following:
- Problems with swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Coughing up blood
Making a Diagnosis of Throat Cancer
ENT specialists in Egg Harbor Township, NJ are well-experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of throat cancer. First, they must identify the specific type of throat cancer a patient has in order to facilitate the proper treatment plan. The two primary types of throat cancer include squamous cell carcinoma (the most common throat cancer) and adenocarcinoma. Besides these two primary types, the cancer can be narrowed down into two additional types as well.
One of these types is pharyngeal cancer, a cancer that develops in the throat and neck. This cancer can be broken down even further by ENT specialists as:
- Nasopharynx cancer (cancer of the upper throat)
- Oropharynx cancer (cancer of the mid-throat)
- Hypopharynx cancer (cancer of the bottom section of the throat)
Laryngeal Cancer
The other throat cancer is laryngeal cancer, which is cancer of the larynx or voice box. According to ENT specialists, it can be hard to detect throat cancer in its first stages. However, if you note a change in your voice or you experience dysphagia (trouble with swallowing), you need to make an appointment with an ENT doctor immediately.
Risk Factors Related to the Disease
Some of the risk factors linked to throat cancer include the following:
- Exposure to asbestos
- Smoking
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Vitamin A deficiency
In addition, throat cancer is linked to other kinds of cancers. The condition is often diagnosed with lung cancer, bladder cancer, or esophageal cancer. This happens because a cancer that develops in one area of the body spreads.
Do not ignore such warning signs as swollen lymph nodes or trouble swallowing. Hoarseness or ear pain are other symptoms that are associated with throat cancer, too. If these types of symptoms take longer than two weeks to heal, you need to talk to a doctor. Visit website for further details about setting up an appointment for a consultation.
