Head and Neck Cancer Reconstructive Surgery in San Francisco Bay Area, Oakland, and Walnut Creek
Working with head and neck cancer patients in the Oakland and San Francisco Bay Area
It’s estimated that head and neck cancer affects about 55,000 people each year in the United States. In most cases, head and neck cancer develops after prolonged exposure to tobacco or alcohol. People who have had had excessive exposure to the sunlight or infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV) are also at a significantly increased risk for developing head and neck cancer. If you have any of these risk factors, you should be aware of the possible signs of head and neck cancer.
Most types of head and neck cancers produce symptoms early, which significantly increases treatment options and survival rates.
Early Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer
Changes in the skin. Basal cell cancer of the skin is the most common form of head and neck cancer. It is often completely treatable when it’s caught early. Other types of skin cancer that can affect the head and neck include squamous cell cancers and malignant melanoma. Changes in the skin may be an early sign of these skin cancers and should be reported to your dermatologist as soon as possible. Look specifically for: moles that change size, color or shape; moles that bleed; a black or blue-black spot on the face or neck; sores that do not heal; a pale patch of skin that grows. If you notice any significant changes in your skin, contact your doctor.
A lump in the neck. A lump in your neck that doesn’t go away after two weeks may be a sign that cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, one of the first places that head and neck cancers reach. Even if these lumps do not cause any pain or discomfort, you should contact your doctor if they persist for more than two weeks. Lumps in the neck may be a sign of cancer of the mouth, throat, voicebox, thyroid gland, or of certain lymphomas and blood cancers.
Change in the voice. Voice changes that last for more than two weeks, including hoarseness, may be an early symptom of cancer in the larynx. Contact your doctor if changes persist for more than two weeks.
A growth in the mouth. A sore or swelling in the mouth that doesn’t heal may be a sign of cancer of the mouth or tongue. You should contact your doctor if you experience a growth in your mouth that lasts longer than a week, even if there is no bleeding or discomfort.
Problems swallowing. Persistent trouble swallowing food or liquids may be an early sign of throat or esophagus cancer. Contact your doctor for an examination to determine the cause.
Persistent earache. Pain around the ear, especially when you swallow, can be caused by a tumor.
Blood in saliva or phlegm. Coughing or spitting blood can be a symptom of several health problems, including some types of head and neck cancer. If you have blood in your saliva or phlegm for more than a few days, see your physician to determine the underlying problem.
As with most types of cancer, the key to fighting head and neck cancer is early detection. If you notice these or other unusual symptoms, schedule a visit with your physician as soon as possible.
