Head and Neck cancers are cancers that
affect the following areas:
-
Lymph nodes of the neck
-
Larynx
-
Pharynx
-
Nasal cavity and sinuses
-
Oral
Cavity
-
Salivary Glands
Up to 5% of all cancers in the US are head and
neck in origin.
Symptoms vary greatly depending on what
part of the head and neck that are affected. For instance
in the mouth there may be white or red patches or unusual
bleeding and pain. In the nose and nasal cavities there
may be pain in the upper teeth or trouble in the eyes. In
the neck there may be a swollen lump that may be painful to
touch.
Diagnosis: Following a physical
examination your doctor may have x-rays taken of the area.
Your doctor may also have a biopsy of the abnormality taken and
analyzed in a lab to determine it the growth is cancerous.
Treatment: If you are diagnosed with
cancer treatment will depend on the location and stage of the
growth. Early detected cancers can sometimes be removed
surgically. More advanced cancers may require radiation
and chemotherapy.
