About Throat Cancer Symptoms, Causes and Treatments?

Answer 1

Throat cancer is a cancer that develops in the larynx (voice box) and the pharynx (throat). The pharynx also includes the base of the tonsils and tongue. When this entire area becomes cancerous, it is considered to be throat cancer.

This cancer forms on the tissue lining the mouth, larynx or pharynx, which is moist. It begins when squamous cells form on these areas. Men are more likely to get throat cancer than women. They are actually ten times more likely to develop this cancer.

There are several symptoms that may occur that could be a sign of throat cancer. However, it's always good to keep in mind that these symptoms could also be signs of other conditions and not the cancer. Since throat cancer is curable in its' early stages, it is important to see the doctor when any of these symptoms should occur. These symptoms include a chronic cough, neck swelling or pain, throat pain, a lump on the outside of the neck, sputum that may be bloody, difficulty in swallowing, and breathing that sounds abnormal. It is also possible to have screen done by a doctor or dentist who will look for red or white patches of cells or lesions that may become cancerous.

There are also several risk factors and causes of throat cancer. Some can or cannot be avoided. Being male is one of them and also being elderly is a risk factor. These are two factors that cannot be avoided. Other causes include the use of tobacco and alcohol, and contracting the HPV virus. Anyone who drinks more than socially or uses tobacco at all should consider quitting to help prevent getting throat cancer.

Anyone who develops throat cancer has the greatest chance of survival in its' early stages. The most common treatments include open surgery, transoral surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, and a new technique call da Vinci surgery which is a much less invasive surgery using advanced technology. The da Vinci surgery is used on some cases of early to moderate throat cancer and has already been successful around the world for many thousands of patients.