7 Early Symptoms Of Throat Cancer You Should Never Ignore

Whenever we think of of deadly diseases, cancer is one of the first diseases that comes to our mind. And, yet throat cancer often goes unnoticed because the initial stages or the warning signs for it can be confused with general ailments such as a sore throat or allergic reactions to seasonal allergies. The recognition of these subtle warning signals, though, may be the key, as catching it early significantly enhances treatment opportunities.

Throat cancer is a term that describes cancerous growths occurring within the pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), or tonsils. Certain risk factors like smoking, excessive alcohol intake, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, unhealthy diet, and chronic acid reflux can raise the risk of getting it. While prevention is imperative, being aware of the early signs is equally important.

Early Signs Of Throat Cancer To Look Out For

In an exclusive interview with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, our expert, Dr Sachin Marda, Senior Consultant Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon (Cancer Specialist), Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, explained early signs of throat cancer you need to look out for:

1. Persistent Hoarseness or Voice Changes

If your voice is persistently hoarse, rough, or weak for over two weeks with no obvious reason such as a cold, it may be an early indication of laryngeal cancer.

2. Chronic Sore Throat

A persistent throat soreness or pain that worsens with time and does not subside with routine treatment must be checked.

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3. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Difficulty in swallowing food, liquids, or even saliva may be a sign of an obstruction or growth within the throat.

4. A Lump in the Neck

Permanent or persistent swelling of lymph nodes or an enduring lump may indicate that cancer cells are migrating. This is usually one of the first noticed signs.

5. Unexplained Ear Pain

Referred pain from the throat to the ear without a true ear infection will sometimes indicate a throat tumor.

6. Coughing Up Blood

Even a minute speck of blood in your saliva or cough should never be dismissed, as it may indicate internal irritation or malignancy.

7. Sudden Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss without diet or activity changes is a warning sign of most cancers, including throat cancers.

Why Early Detection is Important

Dr Marda emphasised that the detection of throat cancer in its early stages normally enables less aggressive treatments, improved survival rates, and enhanced quality of life. Unfortunately, most people tend to wait, thinking these symptoms are just minor infections.

When to Visit A Doctor

If you notice any of the above symptoms that persist for more than two weeks, seek consultation with an ENT specialist. Early screening, involving imaging and biopsies, can exclude or establish the condition.

Bottomline

Throat cancer may present itself as regular throat problems, but consistency and abnormal changes in your body must never be disregarded. Attending to these messages and getting medical attention in a timely manner could be the difference between life and death.