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Cancer can be treated successfully if detected early, but delayed diagnosis can be fatal. Here are 6 early signs of throat cancer to watch out for
Doctors say oral sex can lead to HPV infection, which can increase the risk of throat or mouth cancer. (News18 Hindi)
Medical science has made remarkable progress in recent decades in detecting and treating cancer, but the dreaded disease still claims thousands of lives across the world. More often than not, the cancer is detected only in advanced stages. While doctors recommend getting a certain set of tests done at regular intervals, it’s also important to pay attention to any early signs of cancer in your body.
Once such cancer that shows physical symptoms is throat cancer, also known as mouth cancer or oral cancer, which normally affects the mouth, throat, and/or head.
All types of cancer usually have a very slow onset and can take years to fully develop. Therefore, it is often advised that any unusual changes in the body should prompt an immediate consultation with a doctor. Early detection of cancer greatly increases the chances of successful treatment as a delay can cost the life of the patient. Below are some major signs of throat cancer that can help individuals recognise and address it early.
How To Identify Throat Cancer?
- Wart Or Lump In The Throat: If a wart or lump is visible in any part of the throat, it should not be ignored. While it may not always indicate cancer, the risk is significant. In such cases, random bulges may appear on the skin of the throat.
- Sores In The Mouth: Blisters, boils, or pimples in the mouth are often dismissed as minor issues. However, if a sore in the mouth does not heal over time, it could be a warning sign of cancer. In such cases, immediate consultation with a doctor, preferably an oncologist, is recommended.
- Blood In Phlegm: Blood in the phlegm can have various causes, but it may also be indicative of cancer. Only proper testing can determine the root cause. Do not ignore such symptoms and consult a doctor without delay.
- Looseness In Teeth: If throat or mouth cancer is present, it may cause teeth to loosen. If you experience this symptom, seek medical attention immediately.
- Heaviness In The Voice: A heavy or hoarse voice is common during a cold, but if this symptom occurs without a clear reason or persists for an extended period, it could be an early sign of throat cancer.
- Pain While Eating: Difficulty or pain when swallowing food is another potential sign of throat cancer. Such discomfort should not be overlooked.
Causes Of Throat Cancer
Dr Aditya Sarin, consultant in the Cancer Department at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, explains that “smoking, tobacco and gutkha are responsible for majority of mouth and throat cancer cases”. In a small number of cases, genetic factors may play a role.
Apart from this, environmental factors, alcohol consumption, and the human papillomavirus (HPV) – a virus responsible for genital warts – can also contribute to the development of throat and mouth cancer.
Ways To Prevent Oral Cancer
Dr Sarin advises against the consumption of tobacco in any form. Products like gutkha and betel nut should also be avoided, as they can cause cancer. Furthermore, alcohol consumption should be avoided to reduce the risk.
Dr Sarin notes that “oral sex can lead to HPV infection, which can increase the risk of throat or mouth cancer”. Therefore, practising safe sex is highly recommended.
