Oral and Head and Neck Cancer

Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

Hypopharynx

• Plummer-Vinson (also called Paterson-Kelly) syndrome, a rare disorder that results from nutritional deficiencies. This syndrome is characterized by severe anemia and leads to difficulty swallowing due to webs of tissue that grow across the upper part of the esophagus.

Larynx

• Exposure to airborne particles of asbestos, especially in the workplace.

People who are at risk for head and neck cancers should talk with their doctor about ways they can reduce their risk. They should also talk about how often to have checkups.

What are common symptoms of head and neck cancer?

Symptoms that are common to several head and neck cancer sites include:

• A lump or sore that does not heal
• A sore throat that does not go away
• Difficulty swallowing
• A change or hoarseness in the voice

Other symptoms may include the following:

Oral cavity

• A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
• A swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
• Unusual bleeding or pain in the mouth

Nasal cavity and sinuses

• Sinuses that are blocked and do not clear
• Chronic sinus infections that do not respond to treatment with antibiotics
• Bleeding through the nose
• Frequent headaches
• Swelling or other trouble with the eyes
• Pain in the upper teeth
• Problems with dentures

Salivary glands

• Swelling under the chin or around the jawbone
• Numbness or paralysis of the muscles in the face
• Pain that does not go away in the face, chin, or neck

Oropharynx and hypopharynx

• Ear pain

Nasopharynx

• Trouble breathing or speaking
• Frequent headaches
• Pain or ringing in the ears
• Trouble hearing

Larynx

• Pain when swallowing
• Ear pain

Metastatic squamous neck cancer

• Pain in the neck or throat that does not go away

What can people who have had head and neck cancer do to reduce the risk of developing a second primary (new) cancer?

People who have been treated for head and neck cancer have an increased chance of developing a new cancer, usually in the head and neck, esophagus, or lungs. The chance of a second primary cancer varies depending on the original diagnosis, but is higher for people who smoke. Patients who do not smoke should never start. Those who smoke should do their best to quit. Studies have shown that continuing to smoke increases the chance of a second primary cancer for up to 20 years after the original diagnosis.

How much do Americans know about OHNC?

_{Source: National Cancer Institute}