Do you have a sore throat that won’t go away? Are you having trouble swallowing? Talk to your provider if problems persist. These could be signs of throat cancer.
What is throat cancer?
Throat cancer falls under the broader category of head and neck cancers. While throat cancer is rare, it is important to see your health care provider if you have concerns. People who smoke are at higher risk of throat cancer. There also is a link between human papilloma virus (HPV) and throat cancer.
Patient navigators are here to help.
Patient navigators partner with you through your journey towards recovery by providing the help and resources you need.
Signs of Throat Cancer Can Include Chronic Cough
People who have any of the following symptoms that persist after two or three weeks need to make an appointment to see their healthcare provider.
- Sore throat that doesn’t go away
- Coughing up blood
- Cough that doesn’t go away
- Hard to swallow
- Painful swallowing
- Constant need to clear your throat
- Voice changes
- Lump in your neck
- Ear Pain
- Trouble breathing
Imaging Tests Help to Diagnose Throat Cancer
In addition to a physical exam and providing medical history, patients also may need to undergo some diagnostic tests.
- Biopsy
- Endoscopy
- Imaging tests
- Barium swallow
- Lab tests
Treatment Depends on Cancer Stage
- Surgery
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapies
- Clinical trials
- Complementary (alternative) therapies
