Signs Of Head And Neck Cancer

The symptoms listed below can be related to head and neck cancer. These symptoms can also occur when no cancer is present. The only way to know the difference is to be examined by an otolaryngologist.

A lump in the neck – A lump that lasts more than two weeks should prompt a patient to be seen by a physician. It could be an early sign of mouth, throat, voice box, thyroid gland, or blood cancer. These lumps are usually painless and will continue to increase in size. Many benign lumps can also exist in the neck and can persist well beyond two weeks. These lumps typically are due to benign growths, cysts, and reactive lymph nodes. Otolaryngologists are the best-trained physicians to evaluate, diagnose, and treat any mass or lump in the head and neck area.

Voice changes – If you are hoarse or have changes in your voice that last for more than a month, it is important to see an ENT doctor.

Sore in the mouth – A sore or swelling in the mouth or on the tongue that does not go away after two weeks should be examined by a physician. A sore accompanied by a lump in the neck should also be cause for immediate concern, especially if there are known risk factors for cancer.

Bleeding in the mouth – There are many causes for blood in the mouth other than cancer. But if you have blood in your saliva for more than a few days, consult a physician.

Problems swallowing – Difficulty swallowing food or liquids could be a sign of cancer in the throat or esophagus. Examination by an ENT physician is definitely recommended if you have continual problems swallowing.

Constant earache – Referred pain in or around the ear when swallowing can be caused by a tumor in the throat, especially if there is also difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a lump in the neck. This combination is cause for examination by a physician.

Patches on the skin – If you have had extensive sun exposure, it’s important to watch for changes in your skin. Basal cell cancers, the most common type of head and neck cancer, usually begin as a small, pale patch on the skin. The basal cell cancer then continues to enlarge, creating a dimple in the center. Sometimes there is a change in color. Squamous cell cancers look similar to basal cell cancers, but more often appear on the lip or ear. Malignant melanoma creates a blue or black patch on the skin, much like an irregular-appearing mole. Any blue-black or black spot on the skin that changes size or shape, or any mole that changes size, shape, or color or begins to bleed, should be examined by a physician.