What is Throat Cancer?

Throat cancer is a serious condition that occurs when the cells in the throat multiply uncontrollably and lead to the development of a tumour. Throat cancer affects the pharynx (the middle part of the throat) or the larynx (the voice box). It may also affect the upper part of food pipe, the windpipe or the thyroid.
In India, throat cancer ranks among the most prevalent forms of the disease, particularly affecting men and accounting for approximately 3-6% of cancers in the male population.
Doctors advise surgery to treat throat cancer to improve the quality of life. As early cancer detection has better chances of recovery, timely diagnosis is vital.

Early Signs of Throat Cancer

Early signs of throat cancer may differ from person to person and depend upon where the cancer has developed.
Some early signs of throat cancer are:

• Change in the voice or hoarseness
• Constant sore throat
• Difficulty in swallowing or dysphagia
• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Persistent need to clear the throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Ear pain
• Lump in the neck
• Difficulty in breathing
• Weight loss

While these signs may not necessarily mean throat cancer, consulting the doctor regarding these health problems is crucial.

Common Throat Cancer Symptoms

Throat cancer includes different types of cancers affecting the various parts of the throat. Besides the above early signs, patients may also observe some common throat cancer symptoms, such as:

• Lump in the mouth, throat or neck: This occurs due to an enlarged lymph node. Swelling or enlargement in the lymph nodes is a common throat cancer symptom.
• Unexplained weight loss: As throat cancer makes it difficult to eat and swallow, it gradually leads to weight loss.
• Shortness of breath: Some people may experience a persistent cough or encounter breathing difficulties, which can manifest as noisy breathing.
• Numbness in the mouth or tongue: Oropharyngeal (throat) cancer affects the pharynx, the tonsils and the back of the tongue, causing numbness.

Less Common but Significant Throat Cancer Symptoms

Apart from the early signs of throat cancer, the following are less common but noteworthy symptoms. Consulting a doctor to observe any of these is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment:

• Persistent cough that lingers
• Difficulty swallowing solid or liquid foods (dysphagia)
• Ear pain or discomfort
• Hoarseness or abnormal changes in the voice
• Swelling in the eyes, jaw, throat or neck
• Persistent or unusual headaches
• Repeated or persistent chest infections
• Unexplained nosebleeds

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Identifying Symptoms in Different Throat Cancer Types

Different types of throat cancer can display unique symptoms that often resemble other non-serious conditions. Persistent or unusual symptoms warrant a doctor’s consultation.

Oropharyngeal Cancer Symptoms

Oropharyngeal cancer affects the area right behind the mouth, typically in individuals aged 63 and above.
Symptoms include:

• Lump in the neck, back of the mouth or throat
• Persistent sore throat
• Difficulty opening the mouth fully
• Difficulty moving the tongue
• Pain and difficulty swallowing
• White patch on the tongue or inner mouth lining
• Ear pain
• Coughing up blood
• Unexplained weight loss

Laryngeal Cancer Symptoms

Laryngeal cancer affects the voice box and commonly occurs in people over 60, especially those exposed to tobacco, alcohol or chemicals like asbestos and coal dust.
Symptoms include:

• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Lump or swelling in the neck with persistent sore throat
• Long-lasting cough and breathlessness
• Pain or difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty breathing or high-pitched wheezing in advanced cases

Hypopharyngeal Cancer Symptoms

Hypopharyngeal cancer affects the lower throat (hypopharynx) and originates in the lining cells.
Symptoms include:

• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Long-term sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing or pain while eating
• Lumps along the neck
• Pain, ringing or fullness in the ears

When to Seek Medical Care?

Seek medical care if you experience:

• Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks
• Hoarseness
• Trouble swallowing
• Pain in the ear or jaw

Timely detection is crucial and can prevent the cancer from spreading. Cancer that hasn’t metastasized has a 52%–83% survival rate.
Doctors may recommend surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy depending on the cancer stage and location.

Explore the expert guide - 15 Cancer Fighting Foods That Can Help Lower Risk.

Conclusion

As early detection greatly improves recovery chances, individuals should not ignore any potential throat cancer symptoms.
Persistent cough and voice changes may seem minor but could indicate underlying cancer. People who smoke or consume betel quid, gutka or alcohol are at higher risk and should opt for annual screenings. Regular check-ups enable early cancer diagnosis and timely treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. At what age does throat cancer occur?

Men aged 65 and above are more likely to be diagnosed with throat cancer.

2. What does Stage 1 throat cancer feel like?

It usually presents as a small tumour (≤ 2 cm) confined to the throat and not spread to lymph nodes.

3. How is throat cancer detected?

Doctors conduct a physical exam, laryngoscopy, imaging (CT, MRI, PET), and a biopsy to confirm diagnosis.

4. Can an ENT see throat cancer?

Yes. ENT specialists can detect throat cancer through clinical exams and endoscopy.

5. What is the best test for cancer?

A CT scan offers detailed images of the tumour’s size and location.

6. Is throat cancer curable?

Yes, especially when diagnosed early.

7. Can HPV cause throat cancer?

Yes, oropharyngeal HPV can cause oropharyngeal cancer.

8. What are the different types of throat cancer?

Different types of throat cancer are: Laryngeal, Oropharyngeal, Hypopharyngeal, Nasopharyngeal, Supraglottic, Glottic, Subglottic.

9. Is throat cancer more common in certain age groups?

Yes. It's common in men aged 65 and older.

10. Can voice changes be a sign of throat cancer?

Yes. Voice changes are often seen in laryngeal cancer.

11. How often should I get screened for throat cancer?

Annual screening is advised for tobacco or alcohol users.

Learn more about - Harmful Effects of Tobacco.

12. Can throat cancer spread to other parts of the body?

Yes. It may spread to the thyroid, trachea or oesophagus.

13. Are there any genetic factors that contribute to throat cancer?

Yes. Family history and inherited syndromes may increase risk.

14. What is the importance of early detection?

It enhances treatment success and reduces cancer spread.

Explore the expert guide - Cancer Causes.

15. Who is at risk of throat cancer?

Men over 55 who smoke or consume tobacco and alcohol are at higher risk.