10 Early Warning Signs Of Head And Neck Cancer

Early detection serves as a fundamental pillar in the ongoing battle against head and neck cancers, a diverse category of malignancies impacting vital areas like the mouth, throat, nose, and sinuses. The ability to identify subtle signs and symptoms proves paramount, offering a window for timely intervention that can potentially enhance treatment outcomes and overall prognosis. Here are some warning signs and symptoms that you must know about. (Image Source: Getty)

1. Changes in Voice: Noticeable changes in voice quality or hoarseness for a prolonged duration can be indicative of nasal, nasopharyngeal, laryngeal or vocal cord cancer. (Image Source: Getty)

2. Nasal Issues: Symptoms like nasal stuffiness, frequent nosebleeds, and chronic sinus infections that resist standard treatments could indicate potential concerns in the nasal cavity or sinuses. (Image Source: Getty)

3. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Difficulty or pain while swallowing, foreign body sensation, regurgitation of undigested food may be indicative of throat or esophageal cancer. (Image Source: Getty)

4. Lumps or Masses: Any persistent lumps or masses in the neck, throat, or mouth require immediate attention, as they could be indicative of cancerous growth. (Image Source: Getty)

5. Chronic Bad Breath (Halitosis): Unresolved bad breath despite oral hygiene practices may be a sign of oral tumors in the tongue or jaw. (Image Source: Getty)

6. Persistent Mouth Sores: Sores or ulcers in the mouth that don't heal could be indicative of oral cancer, emphasizing the importance of regular dental check-ups. (Image Source: Getty)

7. Skin Changes: Changes in skin color, texture, or the presence of unusual growths may signal skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. (Image Source: Getty)

8. Difficulty Moving the Jaw: Tumors affecting the bones, muscles, or nerves of the head and neck region can lead to difficulty in opening the mouth, known as trismus. (Image Source: Getty)

9. Abnormal Patches: White or red patches in the mouth or throat could indicate cancer or precancerous changes such as leukoplakia or erythroplakia. (Image Source: Getty)

10. Dental Changes: Spontaneous tooth loss, loose teeth, or ill-fitting dentures can serve as indicators of jaw cancer. (Image Source: Getty)

Inputs by: Dr Mohsin Shaikh, Associate Consultant, Surgical Oncologist, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India (Image Source: Getty)