Overview
Throat cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the throat, specifically in the pharynx or the voice box (larynx). The throat is a muscular tube that begins behind the nose and ends in the neck. Most throat cancers begin in the flat cells that line the inside of the throat. Throat cancer can also be categorized as pharyngeal cancer or laryngeal cancer, depending on the specific part of the throat where it originates. Other types of throat cancers include nasopharyngeal cancer, which begins in the nasopharynx, and soft palate cancer, which affects the soft palate located at the upper back of the mouth. Common symptoms of throat cancer include a persistent cough, changes in voice (hoarseness or difficulty speaking clearly), difficulty swallowing, ear pain, a lump or sore that doesn't heal, sore throat, weight loss, and white patches in the mouth that don't go away. Risk factors for throat cancer include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, viral infections such as HPV and Epstein-Barr virus, a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables, GERD, and exposure to toxic substances at work.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of throat cancer may include a cough, changes in your voice (hoarseness or not speaking clearly), difficulty swallowing, ear pain, a lump or sore that doesn't heal, a sore throat, and weight loss. It's important to seek medical attention if you notice any new persistent signs and symptoms.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing throat cancer include tobacco use, such as smoking and chewing tobacco, excessive alcohol use, viral infections like human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus, a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and exposure to toxic substances at work.
Development
Throat cancer can develop in different parts of the throat, including the pharynx, larynx, and nasopharynx. The specific type of throat cancer depends on the location where cancer originates. Some of the main types of throat cancer include:
- Pharyngeal cancer: This type of throat cancer develops in the pharynx, which is the part of the throat that starts behind the nose and extends to the neck.
- Laryngeal cancer: Laryngeal cancer begins in the voice box (larynx), which is located just below the throat. The voice box contains the vocal cords that vibrate to produce sound when we talk.
- Nasopharyngeal cancer: This type of throat cancer begins in the nasopharynx, which is the part of the throat behind the nose.
- Oropharyngeal cancer: Oropharyngeal cancer starts in the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat right behind the mouth that includes the tonsils.
- Hypopharyngeal cancer (laryngopharyngeal cancer): Hypopharyngeal cancer begins in the hypopharynx, which is the lower part of the throat, just above the esophagus and windpipe.
- Glottic cancer: Glottic cancer affects the vocal cords in the larynx, which are responsible for producing sound when we speak.
- Supraglottic cancer: This type of throat cancer begins in the upper part of the larynx, including the epiglottis, a piece of cartilage that prevents food from entering the windpipe.
- Subglottic cancer: Subglottic cancer develops in the lower part of the larynx, below the vocal cords. It's important to note that throat cancer symptoms may be non-specific and can also be caused by other conditions. If you experience any persistent symptoms, it's essential to consult with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you notice any new signs and symptoms that are persistent, such as a cough, changes in your voice, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, a lump or sore that doesn't heal, a sore throat, weight loss, or white patches in your mouth that won't go away, particularly if they are associated with throat cancer risk factors like tobacco use or excessive alcohol consumption. It is important to consult your doctor for further evaluation and investigation.
Diagnosis
To diagnose throat cancer, your doctor may recommend the following procedures:
- Using a scope to get a closer look at your throat: During an endoscopy, a special lighted scope is used to examine your throat for any abnormalities.
- Removing a tissue sample for testing: If any abnormalities are found during an endoscopy or laryngoscopy, a tissue sample (biopsy) is collected and sent to a laboratory for testing. These tests and procedures help determine whether cancer cells are present and, if so, provide information about the stage and extent of the cancer.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of throat cancer may include difficulty swallowing, a persistent sore throat, changes in voice, and ear pain. Other complications can include the spread of cancer to nearby tissues, organs, or lymph nodes. In advanced stages, throat cancer can also lead to respiratory problems and difficulty breathing. Depending on the extent of the cancer and the treatment methods used, patients may experience long-term side effects such as damage to the salivary glands, which can result in dry mouth, or damage to the vocal cords, causing changes in voice.
Prevention
Can throat cancer be prevented? Throat cancer can be challenging to prevent entirely, as many risk factors are beyond personal control, such as genetics and age. However, there are several ways to reduce the risk of developing throat cancer:
- Stop smoking or don't start smoking. If you smoke, quitting can significantly lower your risk of throat cancer.
- Drink alcohol only in moderation, if at all. Limiting alcohol intake to the recommended levels can help reduce the risk.
- Choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. Consuming a varied diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants may help decrease the risk of throat cancer.
- Protect yourself from HPV. Limiting your number of sexual partners, using condoms, and getting vaccinated against HPV can help lower the risk of HPV-related cancers, including throat cancer. By adopting these healthy habits and lifestyle choices, individuals can take proactive steps to minimize their risk of developing throat cancer.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment options and advice regarding throat cancer.
Treatment
Treatment for throat cancer depends on various factors, such as the type, location, and size of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatment options for throat cancer include:
- Surgery: The removal of cancerous tissue through surgery is often the primary treatment for throat cancer. This may involve a standard surgical procedure (surgery to remove the tumor and some surrounding tissue) or more advanced techniques, such as laser surgery, robotic surgery, or reconstruction of the affected area.
- Radiation therapy: This treatment involves using high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to target and kill cancer cells. External beam radiation therapy (from a machine outside the body) or internal radiation therapy (placing radioactive material inside the body near the cancer) may be used.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be given alone or in combination with radiation therapy. Chemotherapy for throat cancer is typically provided through a vein (intravenous) or taken as pills.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules or proteins on the surface of cancer cells or inside them. This can help to reduce the growth and spread of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy, also known as biologic therapy, uses the body's immune system to help fight cancer. This may involve using immune system cells, such as T cells, to target and attack cancer cells.
- Supportive care: Treatment for throat cancer may also involve supportive care, which aims to manage the side effects and complications of treatment. This can include medications to manage pain, nausea, or infections, as well as speech therapy, nutritional support, and counseling services. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an oncologist or a head and neck surgeon, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific case of throat cancer.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for throat cancer, you can:
- Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you.
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restricting your diet.
- Write down symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
- List key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor, prioritizing the most important ones in case time runs out. For throat cancer, some basic questions to ask include:
- What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
- Are there other possible causes for my symptoms or condition?
- What kinds of tests do I need?
- What is the best course of action?
- What are the alternatives to the approach you're suggesting?
- Should I see a specialist? What will that cost, and will my insurance cover it?
- Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
- Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing me?
- Are there brochures or other printed material that I can take with me? What websites do you recommend?
- What will determine whether I should plan for a follow-up visit? By being well-prepared, you can make the most of your time with your doctor and ensure that you have all the information you need to understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and follow-up plan.