From head to toe, cancers can occur in almost every part of our body. Out of these cancers, head and neck cancers account for around 4% of cases in the US. In this article, we will talk about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for head and neck cancers.

What Does Head and Neck Cancer Mean?

Cancer that starts in the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck that are lined with squamous cells, such as the inside the mouth, voice box, and throat, are collectively called head and neck cancers. This type of head and neck cancer is also known as squamous cell carcinomas.

There is also another kind of head and neck cancer, which originates in the sinuses, salivary glands, and nerves in the head and neck, but this type is rare.

Type of Head and Neck Cancers

There are five different types of head and neck cancer, and they are:

1. Nasopharyngeal cancer
2. Salivary gland cancer
3. Oral and oropharyngeal cancer
4. Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer
5. Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer

What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Head and Neck Cancers?

Head and neck cancer symptoms will vary based on the body part cancer has developed in.

Nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses

• Blocked sinuses that refuse to clear with medication
• Frequent headaches along with pain in the eyes and upper teeth
• Nosebleeds

Nasopharyngeal

• Pain in the throat that doesn’t go away with medication
• Difficulty swallowing
• Ringing in the ears and problems with hearing

Salivary gland

• Pain in the neck, face, or chin for a prolonged period of time
• Swelling around the jaws
• Paralysis of the facial muscles

Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal

• Trouble swallowing
• Pain in the ears
• Difficulty speaking or breathing

Oral and oropharyngeal

• Pain and bleeding in the mouth
• Red or white patches in the mouth lining, gums, or the tongue
• Swelling around the jaws

Warning Signs of Head and Neck Cancer

Some of the biggest warning signs of head and neck cancer include:

• Sore throat
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Change in voice or hoarseness
• Frequent nosebleeds, especially from one nostril
• Difficulty and pain in swallowing, breathing, and chewing
• Painless lump in the neck, mouth, or jaw area
• Sudden and unprompted weight loss
• Pain or ringing in the ear, or hearing loss, particularly on one side
• Blood in phlegm or saliva
• Tiredness

The Most Common Type of Neck Cancer

Squamous cell tumors account for 90% of head and neck cancer, which are mostly found in the oral cavity and larynx (oropharyngeal and laryngeal cancer) inside the mouth. This cancer affects the gums, lips, tongue, inside lining of the cheeks, and floor or roof of the mouth.

Treatment Options for Head and Neck Cancer

Like most other cancers, treatment options for head and neck cancers also include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these treatments.

Your treatment plan would depend on a number of factors, such as the location and stage of cancer, your health condition, and your age.

Consult Our Oncologists at COHA for a Comprehensive Guidance on Head and Neck Cancers

If you are noticing any of the symptoms or warning signs, contact us today for head and neck cancer treatment. At Chesapeake Oncology Hematology Associates (COHA), our expert oncologists will evaluate your symptoms and discuss treatment options with you. We provide ourselves providing world-class care in a compassionate environment.