Throat cancer refers to malignant tumors that develop in the pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), or surrounding structures. While relatively uncommon, throat cancer is a serious condition that can impact breathing, speech, swallowing, and overall health. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, so recognizing warning signs and seeking timely evaluation are critical.
Knowing when to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can lead to faster diagnosis and more-effective care.
Types of Throat Cancer
Throat cancer is categorized based on the location of the tumor:
- Nasopharyngeal cancer affects the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
- Oropharyngeal cancer affects the middle part of the throat, including the back of the tongue and tonsils.
- Hypopharyngeal cancer involves the lower portion of the throat.
- Laryngeal cancer affects the voice box (larynx), located just below the pharynx.
Most throat cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, meaning they arise from the thin, flat cells lining the throat.
Common Symptoms of Throat Cancer
Symptoms vary depending on the location and stage of the tumor. Early symptoms may be mistaken for common conditions like allergies or infections, but persistent or worsening signs should not be ignored.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent sore throat
- Hoarseness or voice changes lasting more than two weeks
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- A lump in the neck or throat
- Ear pain without infection
- Chronic cough or coughing up blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- A sensation of something being stuck in the throat
- Breathing difficulty (in more advanced stages)
Not all symptoms indicate cancer, but a specialist evaluation is recommended if the symptoms are ongoing or unexplained.
When to See an ENT Specialist
It’s not uncommon for throat discomfort to come and go. However, you should consider scheduling an ENT evaluation if you experience:
- Hoarseness or voice changes that persist for two weeks or longer
- Difficulty swallowing or persistent throat pain
- A persistent lump in the neck (one that does not go away)
- Any of the above symptoms combined with significant risk factors such as smoking or HPV exposure
An ENT specialist may perform a physical exam, laryngoscopy (to view the throat and voice box), and imaging or biopsy if cancer is suspected.
Treatment Options
If throat cancer is diagnosed, treatment depends on the tumor’s location, size, and stage. Common approaches include:
- Surgery to remove the tumor
- Radiation therapy, often used in early-stage cancers
- Chemotherapy, sometimes in combination with radiation
- Targeted therapy for tumors with specific molecular features
- Rehabilitation, including speech or swallowing therapy
The goal is to remove or control the cancer while preserving function whenever possible.
Expert ENT Care When You Need It
The physicians at Webster Specialty Hospital offer experienced care for patients with symptoms of throat cancer and provide access to diagnostic tools and specialist referrals when needed.
On the ENT Specialist in Webster TX page, you can scroll down and find a physician who’s right for you. Then click their link to visit their website and make an appointment.
If you’re noticing persistent symptoms or have risk factors for throat cancer, early evaluation by an ENT Specialist in League City TX can lead to timely treatment and better outcomes.