Posted in: Throat Cancer Treatment by Dr. Tarang Krishna Posted Date: 11 Sep, 2019
It is said that prevention is better than cure but you need to be well informed about things you desire to prevent from happening to you. Here in this article, we intend to spread throat cancer awareness so that you can guard yourself and your loved ones against the same.
What is Throat Cancer?
It is cancer affecting throat (pharynx), tonsils and the voice box (larynx). Cancerous tumours start in the flat cells present inside the throat, interfering with one’s swallowing, speaking and breathing. In comparison to other forms of cancer, throat cancer is relatively uncommon.
What are its types?
All throat cancers involve uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells but doctors require ascertaining the specific type for providing appropriate treatment to the patient. Squamous cell carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma are the two types, wherein the former affects the flat cells in the throat and the latter affects the glandular cells.
Symptoms and Signs of Throat Cancer
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Throat discomfort
- Weight loss
- Mass or lump in the neck
- Ear pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Phlegm production
Those afflicted with throat cancer often feel something is stuck in their throat, find swallowing food and water difficult and have some difficulty with breathing as well. There are chronic cough and phlegm production combined with ear pain. However, not every patient feels all the symptoms and these can be the signs of some other health problems.
Throat Cancer Causes and Risk Factors
- Smoking
- Poor dental hygiene
- Poor diet and lifestyle
- Alcohol abuse
- Diseases like HPV
What are the treatment options available?
Throat cancer treatment is subject to various factors, such as patient’s age, health history, stage and the location of cancer. The common treatments available include:-
Surgery
It involves removal of cancer affected part or the whole organ, depending on the stage of throat cancer.
Radiation Therapy
This throat cancer treatment involves the application of the high-intensity radiations on the affected area to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
It reduces tumour size and kills cancer cells while causing side effects like hair loss. It is often given in combination with radiation to patients.