Oncology of the Head and Neck

Head and neck cancer (H&N cancer) is a term used to describe a collection of malignancies that develop in the head and neck region (which includes the lip, oral cavity (mouth), nasal cavity, sinuses, pharynx, larynx (voice box), salivary glands, and thyroid). H&N malignancies rank sixth among all cancers worldwide, accounting for around 40% of all cancers in South East Asia, including India. Advances in all branches of Oncology (surgical, radiation, and medical) over the last few decades have made H&N cancer a more understood and controlled problem today.

The symptoms of H&N cancer differ depending on where the illness originated. These may not work at first. Because of this feature, individuals with H&N cancer frequently come with advanced diseases, making annual cancer screening necessary in persons over 40, especially if they are addicted to tobacco and/or alcohol. If any of the following symptoms persist for more than four weeks, a visit to the Head & Neck surgeon is required:

Sloppy speech

Teeth that are loose

Earache/headache

Difficulties breathing

Hoarseness/voice change

The thickening of the cheeks

The thickening of the cheeks

Streaking of blood in sputum

Neck lumps that enlarge over time

Swallowing pain and/or difficulties

Inability to properly open the mouth

The inability to protrude one’s tongue

A white or red area on the gums, tongue, or mouthline

Gum swelling that prevents dentures from fitting properly

A sore/ulcer in the mouth/tongue or lip that does not heal

Unusual bleeding, numbness, or discomfort in the mouth or cheek

Swelling in the lower neck’s midline that moves with swallowing

Feeling like something is lodged in your throat/a persistent aching throat

Swelling around and/or under the jaw, possibly with numbness or paralysis on one side of the face Weight reduction