Though there are several types and forms of cancer, throat cancer is one of the dangerous types of cancer affecting a number of people around the globe these days. It may affect anyone, however, a certain group of people is more prone to this.
But don’t worry! With the advancements in science and medical technology, throat cancer can be treated successfully. However, the throat cancer survival rate is based on each stage of cancer. Thus, being aware of the throat cancer symptoms, assist people in overcoming the disease at the initial stage.
What is throat cancer?
Throat cancer means cancer of voice box, vocal cords, & other parts of the throat, such as tonsils & oropharynx. Throat cancer is categorized into two forms such as pharyngeal cancer and laryngeal cancer.
According to the resources, around 1.2% will be diagnosed with oral cavity & pharyngeal cancer within their lifetime and around 0.3 percent will be diagnosed with laryngeal cancer within their lifetime.
Facts on throat cancer
- Throat cancer is nothing but uninhibited cell growth in the throat. The most common types are pharynx cancer and larynx cancer.
- Studies say that 60.7% of people with laryngeal cancer & 64.5 percent of people with pharyngeal cancer live for over 5 years after diagnosis.
- Treatment of throat cancer includes radiotherapy & chemotherapy.
Throat cancer symptoms
The symptoms of throat cancer are hardly indicative. An extreme irritation in the throat or discoloration on the lining tissues of the throat is the main sign of abnormality. The throat cancer symptoms are frequently confused with the signs of severe cold & cough. However, the persistence of these symptoms for a longer period needs instant medical attention. The following are the some are the other common signs and symptoms of throat cancer:
1.Sore Throat: A constant sore throat or burning sensation in the throat can be a sign of throat cancer.
2.Hoarseness or Voice Change: Hoarseness can be a symptom of the voice box (larynx) cancer. Our voice box includes the vocal cords and if the is cancer developing in the voice box, it affects the vocal cords, thus changes the voice. If you face continuous or progressive change in voice, then meet medical professional immediately.
3.Dysphagia (trouble swallowing): Dysphagia or difficulty in swallowing is a condition in which a person faces problem while swallowing food. It can be a sign of throat cancer as cancer can result in narrowing the passages of mouth, esophagus or throat.
4.Swollen lymph nodes: Swelling in lymph nodes is another common sign of throat cancer.
5. Unplanned weight loss: Sudden and unplanned weight loss is also a symptom of throat cancer.
6. Wheezing: Throat cancer blocks the airflow by narrowing the airway which results in difficulty or noisy breathing or wheezing.
7. Breathe Shortness: Shortness of breath can be caused by a tumor or another condition related to cancer.
8.Chronic cough: Continuous cough & or painful sensation in the throat can be a symptom of throat cancer.
9.Lump on neck: There is a prospect that throat cancer can result in a lump on the neck.
10.Ear pain: Some throat cancers even provoke severe ear pain, as the muscles of the throat & ears are connected.
{ Also Read: How to Beat Cancer with Diet? }
Causes & risk factors for throat cancer
The following are lifestyle habits that increase the risk of developing throat cancer:
- Smoking
- Genetic Syndromes
- Too much alcohol consumption
- Exposure to asbestos
- Poor nutrition
- Poor dental hygiene
Throat cancer Preventive measures
The risk of Throat cancer can be prevented if the individual:
- Quits smoking
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Decrease your risk of HPV by practicing safe sex.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats
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