Signs and Symptoms of Throat Cancer
Anatomically, the throat is the muscular tube that runs from our nose all the way down to the bottom of our neck. The cancer of the throat is characterized by tumors in the dominant parts of the throat region such as the larynx (voice box), pharynx, tonsils, etc. Throat tumor symptoms begin forming in the flat cells along the lining of the throat. This affects the organs and even the cartilage that helps us speak, breathe, and swallow. Other names for throat cancer include laryngeal cancer, the cancer of the glottis, tonsil cancer, pharynx cancer, or vocal cord cancer. Throat cancer can be the result of several causes such as genetic disposition, and lifestyle habits. These symptoms and signs are similar to illnesses like the common cold and require vigil supervision.
Initial Symptoms of Throat Cancer
As mentioned, the signs are similar to that of a common cold, so it may be difficult to identify initially. However, if the following signs and symptoms of throat cancer don’t go away in two to three weeks, you must see a doctor immediately:
A major change in your voice or continued hoarseness
Can’t having trouble swallowing (known as dysphagia)
Unprecedented weight loss
A sore throat
Trying to clear your throat constantly
A persistent cough in which blood may be coughed up
Swollen lymph nodes in and on the neck. There may even be swelling in the eyes, jaws, or throat.
Uncomfortable and frequent wheezing
Continuous ear pain
Other signs and symptoms of throat cancer are specific to the area affected. It is important to note that these symptoms may not indicate throat cancer every time. Seek professional help to know what are the signs and symptoms of throat cancer and what are your chances of getting it.
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Types of Throat Cancer
There are six different types of throat cancer, based on the location of origin and initial symptoms of throat cancer:
Nasopharyngeal cancer originates from the nasopharynx, which is the part of the throat present just behind the nose.
Oropharyngeal cancer starts from the oropharynx. This part of the throat is present right behind your mouth, including the tonsils.
Hypopharyngeal cancer (laryngopharyngeal cancer) begins in the hypopharynx or the laryngopharynx, which is the lower part of the throat. It is located just above one’s esophagus and windpipe.
Glottic cancer starts in the vocal cords and spreads from there.
Supraglottic cancer is found to begin in the upper portion of the larynx and negatively damages the epiglottis- the piece of cartilage that blocks food from entering the windpipe.
Subglottic cancer originates from the lower portion of the larynx or voice box.
On the basis of cells it attacks, you can identify the signs of throat cancer of two types:
A squamous cell carcinoma. This is the type of throat cancer that attacks the flat cells lining in the throat. It’s the most common throat cancer fund amongst patients.
An adenocarcinoma. This type of throat cancer is rare and it attacks the glandular cells of the throat.
Did You Know?
The size of the tumor and the extent of cancer depend on the stage of cancer the patient is on and the initial symptoms of throat cancer.
Stage 0: In this stage, the throat tumor symptoms are only on the surface and can be easily reduced.
Stage 1: The size of the tumor is around 2 cm. The throat tumor symptoms start varying massively from after this.
Stage 2: The size is between 2 and 4 cm and may have spread to another region.
Stage 3: It is larger than 4 cm and has spread into other throat structures or even to one lymph node.
Stage 4: The tumor has attacked the lymph nodes and other distant organs.
Solved Example
1. What are the Causes of Throat Cancer Symptoms?
Answer: Initial symptoms of throat cancer occur when cells within the throat develop malignant tumors. The throat tumor symptoms are the result of mutations within cells, which encourage the growth of the tumor while killing the healthy cells present. The accumulating cells can make the tumor in your throat bigger and spread across different parts of the body. Though there isn’t a clear cut answer as to how such mutations take place, doctors have identified several risk factors that may cause them. Causes may include alcohol abuse, using tobacco and products with tobacco in it, insufficient diet lacing nutritious fruits and vegetables, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), and HPV (which is sexually transmitted).
FAQs on Symptoms and Type of Throat Cancer
1. What are the most common symptoms of throat cancer a student should be aware of?
The primary symptoms of throat cancer often develop gradually. Key indicators include a persistent sore throat that does not heal, a change in voice or hoarseness that lasts for more than two weeks, and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Other signs to watch for are a lump or swelling in the neck, unexplained weight loss, persistent ear pain, and a cough that may produce blood.
2. What are the different types of throat cancer as classified in biology?
Throat cancer is primarily categorised based on the part of the throat affected and the type of cells involved. The main types include:
- Pharyngeal Cancer: This develops in the pharynx (the hollow tube from behind your nose to the top of your windpipe). It's further divided into nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx cancer.
- Laryngeal Cancer: This affects the larynx, or voice box.
3. What are the primary causes and major risk factors for developing throat cancer?
The two most significant risk factors for throat cancer are tobacco use (including smoking and chewing tobacco) and excessive alcohol consumption. The combination of these two habits greatly increases the risk. Another major cause, particularly for oropharyngeal cancer, is infection with certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Other contributing factors include poor nutrition, a family history of head and neck cancer, and exposure to certain chemicals like asbestos.
4. What symptoms are typical of early-stage throat cancer?
In its early stages, throat cancer symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. The most common early signs are a persistent change in voice or hoarseness, a mild but constant sore throat, and a sensation of a lump in the throat. Unlike a common cold, these symptoms do not improve after a week or two and should be medically evaluated if they persist.
5. How is throat cancer diagnosed by a doctor according to medical science?
Diagnosing throat cancer involves several steps. A doctor will first perform a physical exam and inquire about symptoms and risk factors. If cancer is suspected, the primary diagnostic procedures are:
- Endoscopy: A thin, lighted tube is used to visually inspect the throat.
- Biopsy: This is the definitive test where a small tissue sample is removed from the suspicious area and examined under a microscope for cancer cells.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans may be used to determine the size of the tumour and whether it has spread to other parts of the body, which is crucial for staging the cancer.
6. What is the connection between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and throat cancer?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV), specifically high-risk strains like HPV-16, is a major cause of oropharyngeal cancers (a type of throat cancer affecting the middle part of the throat). The virus can infect the cells lining the throat, causing genetic changes that lead to the formation of cancerous tumours. HPV-related throat cancers often have a different biological profile and may respond better to treatment than those caused by tobacco or alcohol.
7. Is throat cancer curable, and what factors influence the prognosis?
Yes, throat cancer is often curable, especially when detected and treated in its early stages. The prognosis, or outlook, largely depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, its location, the type of cancer cells, and the patient's overall health. Early-stage cancers that have not spread have a much higher cure rate. Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these methods.
8. Does a persistent sore throat or hoarseness always indicate throat cancer?
No, not always. A persistent sore throat and hoarseness are more commonly caused by less severe conditions like laryngitis, acid reflux (GERD), or allergies. However, what makes these symptoms a potential warning sign for cancer is their persistence. If hoarseness, a sore throat, or any other symptom lasts for more than two to three weeks without a clear cause, it is essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis to rule out serious conditions.
9. Why is throat cancer generally linked to lifestyle factors rather than being hereditary?
Most throat cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which arise from damage to the cells lining the throat. This damage is most often caused by exposure to external carcinogens like those found in tobacco smoke and alcohol. While rare genetic syndromes can increase a person's risk, direct inheritance is not a primary cause. The strong correlation is with lifestyle choices because the carcinogens directly mutate the DNA of throat cells over time, initiating cancerous growth. Therefore, the risk is more acquired than inherited.
10. Besides quitting smoking, what lifestyle changes can help prevent throat cancer?
In addition to avoiding all tobacco products, several other lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of throat cancer. These include limiting alcohol consumption, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and maintaining a healthy weight. Another crucial preventive measure is getting the HPV vaccine, which protects against the strains most commonly linked to oropharyngeal cancer. Practising safe sex can also reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
