The main symptom of cancer of the throat (larynx) is hoarseness. Other signs and symptoms include difficulty swallowing and breathing, changes in voice, a "cake" sensation in the throat, pain in the throat that can radiate to the ear, presence of nodules in the neck and bleeding when coughing.
It is worth remembering that these signs are very common in other situations and, most of the time, are not caused by throat cancer. However, the presence of one or more of these symptoms for more than two weeks should be evaluated by the otolaryngologist or family doctor, especially if the person is smoker and have a habit of drinking alcoholic beverages regularly.
Larynx cancer is more common in men and accounts for about 25% of malignancies affecting the head and neck. More than half of the cases occur in vocal chords, while approximately 33% of tumors affect the larynx above the vocal cords.
The diagnosis of throat cancer is made through biopsy. The procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia.
Treatment of laryngeal cancer depends on the characteristics and stage of the tumor. Depending on the location and extent, treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
The earlier the tumor is diagnosed, the greater the chances of avoiding problems in teeth, speech and swallowing caused by the treatment. The total withdrawal of the larynx loss of voice and requires the opening of a definitive opening in the trachea (tracheostomy).
Some surgical techniques already allow preserving the function of the larynx. It is also possible to rehabilitate the voice through specific prostheses, even in patients who have undergone total organ removal.
The association of cigarette with alcoholic beverages increases the chances of developing throat cancer by more than 40 times. Those who smoke are already 10 times more likely to have the disease than those who do not smoke.
In addition, poor diet (too spicy or greasy foods), stress, using the voice improperly and ingesting too hot or too cold drinks also increase the risk of laryngeal cancer.
Otorhinolaryngologist is the specialist to diagnose and treat throat cancer.
Learn more at: What are the symptoms of mouth cancer?
