Know the Signs: Don't Ignore Head and Neck Cancer Symptoms

Head and neck cancer often doesn't announce itself loudly. About 4.5% of cancer diagnoses worldwide are head and neck cancers. Its early warning signs include persistent mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained pain — and they can easily get overlooked. In this post, we highlight the signs to note so you know when a sore throat needs medical attention.

What is head and neck cancer?

It is a broad category that includes several cancers that start in the head and neck. Most start in squamous cells that make up the moist tissue lining the mouth, throat (pharynx), voice box or nasal cavity.

This category includes cancers of the:

• Oral cavity
• Salivary glands
• Nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses
• Nasopharynx
• Oropharynx
• Hypopharynx
• Larynx

As with other cancers, early detection matters and could save lives.

Symptoms of head and neck cancer

The symptoms associated with head and neck cancer are typically mild and can mimic a cold or sore throat. Although symptoms vary, a sore throat that doesn't get better is the most common sign of head and neck cancer.

Depending on the type of head and neck cancer, some of the symptoms include:

• A persistent sore throat
• Ear pain or repeated ear infections
• Frequent headaches
• Pain in the face or neck that won't go away
• Pain in the upper teeth
• Pain when chewing or swallowing
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Trouble breathing or speaking

More serious symptoms to look out for include:

• A lump in the throat, mouth or neck
• A mouth or tongue sore that doesn't heal
• Frequent nosebleeds, bloody saliva or phlegm
• A white or red patch on the gums, tongue or inside the mouth
• Swelling in the jaw, neck or side of the face

If you or anyone you know has any of these symptoms, it's important to contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

How to reduce the risk of head and neck cancer

While anyone can develop head and neck cancer, certain lifestyle factors can increase the risk. There are steps to take to lower your chances:

• Avoid tobacco products
• Limit alcohol use
• Protect against HPV through vaccination and safe practices
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Use sun protection for your lips and face
• Go for regular health and dental checkups

A call to act

By recognizing the signs of head and neck cancer and taking them seriously, you can protect your health, giving yourself the best possible chance at early detection and successful treatment.

Please consider supporting the Alliance for CancerCare Equity's (ACCE) mission by sharing this blog with friends and family. Early detection saves lives and awareness is the first step. You can also support ACCE's No Patient Left Behind campaign.

Sources

• Head and Neck Cancer | Cleveland Clinic
• What is head and neck cancer? | UC Davis Health