Just as the name suggests head and neck cancer refers to several types of cancers that mainly affect the head and neck portions of the human body. However, it is seen that people who are above 50 are more prone to develop head and neck cancer. It is also noteworthy that head and neck cancers are treatable and curable if caught early and are easily preventable. Anyway, the most common cause that is considered to be responsible for head and neck cancer is consuming tobacco and drinking alcohol on a regular basis. Besides, Human papillomavirus (HPV) is also an eminent risk factor for head and neck cancers. Go through today’s blog, drafted by the experts of the Head and Neck Trauma clinic in Kolkata to gather some important information about head and neck cancers.

What includes head and neck cancers?

• Oral cavity which includes lips, tongue, gums, the lining of the cheeks and lips, bottom and top of the mouth, and behind the wisdom teeth
• Larynx
• Oro-pharynx or back of the oral cavity
• Nose and Para-Nasal Sinuses
• Naso-pharynx or Post Nasal Space
• Hypo-pharynx or Below Oro-pharynx and Posterior to Larynx
• Thyroid Glands
• Salivary Glands
• Ear
• Miscellaneous that includes Skin cancers, Lymphomas, Sarcomas, Eye cancers, PNETs, etc.

What are the most usual signs of head and neck cancers?

• Did you know that head and neck cancer can be hard to diagnose as its symptoms are often so mild and can seem less serious conditions such as a mere cold or sore throat? Still, some symptoms of head and neck cancers are as follows –
• Sore mouth or sore tongue that is not healing for a longer period of time.
• Prominent white or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
• A continuing sore throat.
• Sense of hoarseness.
• Acute swelling in the jawline, neckline, or side of the face.
• Random and frequent sinus infections.
• A persistent neck pain.
• Pain in teeth.
• Unnatural bleeding through the nose or in the mouth, or blood in the saliva.
• Frequent headaches.
• Tough swallowing.
• Trouble speaking or breathing.
• Continuous pain in the ears, etc.

However, if you observe any of these symptoms, you must see your physician immediately. They might be the early signs of less serious conditions, but a thorough exam should be done at the earliest. You can take an appointment with the best Consultant and ENT Surgeon at the Head and Neck Trauma Clinic, Kolkata.