Head and Neck Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Shruti Surushe , Oncologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, voice box (larynx), nose, sinuses, salivary glands, and other nearby structures. Common symptoms include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, mouth sores, or a lump in the neck. Early diagnosis and timely treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy, help improve outcomes and quality of life.

What are the Types of head and neck cancer?

Oral cancer
Oropharyngeal cancer
Hypopharyngeal cancer
Laryngeal cancer
Nasopharyngeal cancer
Salivary gland cancer
Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer

Cancers of the head and neck can spread to the lymph nodes in the upper part of the neck.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer?

Recognizing the symptoms of head and neck cancer early can lead to a timely diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. Common symptoms include:

A lump or sore that does not heal
Persistent sore throat
Difficulty in swallowing
Changes in voice or hoarseness
Unexplained weight loss
Ear pain
Persistent nasal congestion or nosebleeds

If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

What Are the Causes of Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and neck cancer develops due to genetic changes in cells, often triggered by environmental and lifestyle risk factors that increase the likelihood of cancer formation.

Tobacco smoking or chewing tobacco
Heavy alcohol consumption
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially HPV-16
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection in some cancers
Poor oral hygiene
Prolonged sun exposure (lip cancer)
Exposure to wood dust, asbestos, or certain industrial chemicals
Family history of certain cancers

When to See a Doctor for Head and Neck Cancer?

Consult an ENT specialist or oncologist if you have persistent mouth sores, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, a neck lump, or any head and neck symptoms lasting longer than two weeks. Early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

You should see a doctor if you have:

A sore throat or mouth ulcer lasting more than two weeks
A lump in the neck or mouth
Persistent hoarseness or voice changes
Difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss

Get medical help immediately if:

Difficulty breathing or severe airway obstruction
Heavy bleeding from the mouth or throat
Sudden inability to swallow saliva
Rapidly enlarging neck swelling with severe pain

These could be signs of advanced head and neck cancer or another serious condition requiring urgent medical care.

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How is Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing head and neck cancer typically involves a combination of physical examinations, imaging tests, and biopsies.

Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional can help identify any abnormal growths or lesions in the head and neck region. This examination may include a visual inspection and palpation of the affected areas.
Imaging Tests: Imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans, are used to obtain detailed images of the head and neck. These tests can help determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to other areas.
Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue from the suspected cancerous area and examining it under a microscope. This procedure is crucial for confirming the presence of cancer and determining its type and stage.

What Are the Treatment Options for Head and Neck Cancer?

Treatment depends on the type, location, and stage of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health. A multidisciplinary team usually develops the treatment plan.

Surgery to remove the tumor
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy, such as cetuximab
Immunotherapy for advanced or recurrent cancers
Reconstructive surgery when needed
Speech and swallowing rehabilitation
Nutritional support during and after treatment

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What are the Risk Factors of Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and neck cancers mainly affect men and people over 50. Key risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol use, and HPV infections. Risk factors may vary by cancer type.

Using Tobacco: The most common cause of head and neck cancer is tobacco use, which is linked to about 70% to 80% of these cases. Smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) and using smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco, snuff, dip) all increase the risk. Exposure to secondhand smoke may also raise the risk.
Drinking too Much Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise the risk. If you drink, it is recommended not to have more than two drinks per day for men and individuals with AMAB and one drink per day for women and people with AFAB.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): The rate of head and neck cancers linked to HPV infection is rising, especially in young individuals. HPV infection is linked to up to 75% of oropharyngeal cancers.
Epstein-barr Virus (EBV): EBV is most usually connected with mono. However, it is also associated with cancer risk. According to research, EBV infection can cause nasopharyngeal cancer.
Having a Weak Immune System: A weaker immune system makes the body's battle against cancer more difficult. HIV infection and recent major surgeries (like organ or bone marrow transplants) have been associated with cancer resulting from weakened immune systems.
Radiation Exposure:Radiation therapy for tumors, whether malignant or benign, has a slight risk of causing salivary gland cancer. However, the overall risk is low.
Diet: Consuming excessive amounts of salt-cured foods, such as salt-cured meat and fish, can elevate the chances of developing nasopharyngeal cancer.
Genetic Factors: Inherited genetic variations, such as those in individuals with Fanconi anemia, can increase the risk of certain cancers. Tobacco use can further elevate this risk in those with genetic predispositions.
Poor Dental Hygiene: Neglecting adequate dental care, such as brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, might increase the risk of diseases and oral cancer.

What is the Recovery Process for Head and Neck Cancer?

Recovery depends on early detection, treatment, and supportive care.

Regular follow-up visits and monitoring
Rehabilitation for speech and swallowing
Nutritional support and lifestyle changes
Emotional and psychological support
Long-term care to prevent recurrence

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer?

Symptoms may include a persistent sore throat, a lump in the neck, mouth sores that do not heal, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or changes in the voice, ear pain, nasal congestion, unexplained bleeding, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, unexplained weight loss, or numbness in the face or mouth.

2. How is Head and Neck Cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a medical history, physical examination, endoscopic evaluation of the head and neck, imaging tests such as CT scan, MRI, PET scan, or ultrasound, and a biopsy of the suspicious tissue to confirm the diagnosis. HPV or EBV testing may also be performed for certain cancer types.

3. Who is at risk of developing Head and Neck Cancer?

People who use tobacco products, consume excessive alcohol, have HPV infection, poor oral hygiene, prolonged sun exposure, occupational exposure to certain chemicals, or a family history of head and neck cancers are at increased risk. The risk also increases with age, although HPV-related cancers are increasingly seen in younger adults.

4. How is Head and Neck Cancer treated?

Treatment depends on the type, location, and stage of the cancer. Options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. Rehabilitation, including speech, swallowing, nutritional, and dental support, may also be an important part of recovery.

5. Can Head and Neck Cancer spread to other parts of the body?

Yes. If left untreated, Head and Neck Cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes and distant organs such as the lungs, liver, or bones. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment reduce the risk of metastasis and improve survival.

6. What complications can occur with Head and Neck Cancer?

Complications may include difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing, malnutrition, facial disfigurement, chronic pain, recurrence of the cancer, spread to other organs, treatment-related side effects, and reduced quality of life.