Skip to main content

Health shots

Head and neck cancer typically originates in squamous cells that are present in the moist and mucosal surfaces inside the head and neck, such as the mouth, nose and throat. This type of cancer is also known as squamous cell cancer.

Symptoms of head and neck cancer

If you have an ulcer in your mouth, it is crucial to pay attention to it. Symptoms of head and neck cancer include:

* Change in voice
* Difficulty eating or swallowing
 * Nosebleeds

Head and neck cancer can affect different parts of the body, and the symptoms may vary depending on the location of the cancer. For example, if cancer affects the voice box, the voice may sound different, and there may be difficulty swallowing. Oral cancer may cause ulcers in the mouth or oropharynx, making it difficult to eat. If cancer affects the nose, the nose may become blocked, and there may be nosebleeds. Ear cancer may cause bleeding from the ear, hearing loss, and facial asymmetry.

It is imperative to consult an ENT or head and neck cancer doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

nosebleed
Nosebleeds can be a symptom of head and neck cancer. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock

Screening and diagnostic tests available for early detection of head and neck cancer

Several screening and diagnostic tests are available for early detection of head and neck cancer:

1. To examine the ulcer properly, the doctor opens the patient’s mouth and examines it. The doctor will thoroughly examine the mouth, tongue, buccal mucosa, and oropharynx.

2. A laryngoscopy is performed to examine the voice box or vocal cords with a telescope or fiberoptic laryngoscope, and nasal endoscopy is done to examine the nose.

3. If anything suspicious is found, a biopsy or subsequent CT scan and MRI is done to check for malignancy and how far it has spread. Early detection of cancer increases the likelihood of successful treatment.

CT scan for cancer
You may be asked to undergo a CT scan in case of a head and neck cancer. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Importance of early detection and treatment options for head and neck cancer

In the early stages of head and neck cancer, treatment can be done with only one modality, such as surgery or radiotherapy. For example, stage 1 cancer of the voice box can be treated with radiotherapy or laser, but stage 4 cancer may require removal of the voice box, followed by radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Early diagnosis of cancer reduces the need for extensive treatment, and delay in treatment increases the chances of organ removal, disability, and deformity. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose cancer early.

cancer
Early detection of cancer can go a long way in getting you treated quickly. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Challenges in early detection of head and neck cancer and how can we overcome them

One of the biggest challenges in early detection of head and neck cancer is that people often ignore the symptoms and do not seek medical attention until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. Additionally, many general practitioners may not have the expertise to identify this type of cancer. Therefore, raising awareness about head and neck cancer is crucial to promoting early detection and treatment.

The post Head and neck cancer: Know the signs for early detection and treatment appeared first on Healthshots.



from | HealthShots https://ift.tt/mWkwZ03
via IFTTT

Labels

Labels:

Popular posts from this blog

Health shots

An itchy scalp is a common hair problem. I have dandruff, which is probably why I experience an itchy feeling most of the time. It is very bothersome, especially because it may lead to scalp odour, and hair damage. Also, persistent humidity might create an environment that promotes fungal or bacterial diseases. Use azadirachta indica or neem for itchy scalp, says my mom. She believes that since neem is rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it can help treat a variety of scalp infections. When I used it, it helped reduce inflammation on the scalp. What are the causes of itchy scalp? An itchy scalp can be caused by several factors, including common irritants and underlying medical issues. Here are a few common culprits – 1. Dandruff Dandruff can lead to itchy scalp, but does not give the red or inflamed appearance. It can happen in oily areas of your body, like your scalp, face, or chest, as per a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermato...
Read more

THE BEST WEIGHT LOSS PILLS AND SUPPLIMENTS

    WEIGHT LOSS PILLS AND SUPPLIMENTS Weight accident pills and supplements are a accepted best for bodies attractive to lose weight and advance their all-embracing health. These articles are advised to advice abolish appetite, access animosity of fullness, accession metabolism, or block the assimilation of fat. They appear in abounding forms such as pills, powders, liquids, and alike bars. Some weight accident supplements and pills are accessible over-the-counter, while others crave a decree from a healthcare provider. It is important to agenda that weight accident supplements and pills should not be advised as a quick fix solution, they are not a acting for a advantageous diet and approved exercise. They should be acclimated in affiliation with these affairs changes in adjustment to accomplish the best results. Additionally, abounding weight accident supplements and pills accept not been thoroughly activated and may accept abeyant ancillary effects. In this article, ...
Read more

Health shots

When you want instant boiling water for tea or coffee, an electric kettle can make it quick and easy. An electric kettle is a useful kitchen equipment that rapidly and efficiently boils water. It typically comprises a container with an electrically powered heating element. Electric kettles have various advantages over traditional stovetop kettles, such as faster boiling periods, automatic shut-off functions, and precise temperature control. They come in various sizes, designs, and materials, including stainless steel and glass. Electric kettles are multifunctional and can be used for more than just boiling water, such as brewing tea, coffee, instant noodles, and soup. Here are some of the best electric kettles hand-picked for you! 6 best electric kettles for hot water Check out the best electric kettle for a hassle-free hot water solution. 1. Pigeon Electric Kettle This electric kettle from Pigeon comes with a stainless steel body and a 1.5-liter capacity. This 1500W electric kettl...
Read more