Throat cancer refers to cancerous tumors that develop in your throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx) or tonsils.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of throat cancer may include:
- A cough
- Changes in your voice, such as hoarseness or not speaking clearly
- Difficulty swallowing
- Ear pain
- A lump or sore that doesn't heal
- A sore throat
- Weight loss
Causes
Throat cancer occurs when cells in your throat develop genetic mutations. These mutations cause cells to grow uncontrollably and continue living after healthy cells would normally die. The accumulating cells can form a tumor in your throat.
Risk factors
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol use
- A sexually transmitted virus called human papillomavirus (HPV)
- A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Though most throat cancers involve the same types of cells, specific terms are used to differentiate the part of the throat where cancer originated.
- Nasopharyngeal cancer
- Oropharyngeal cancer
- Hypopharyngeal cancer
- Glottic cancer begins in the vocal cords.
- Supraglottic cancer
Your treatment options are based on many factors, such as the location and stage of your throat cancer, the type of cells involved, your overall health, and your personal preferences.
For more-advanced throat cancers, radiation therapy may be combined with chemotherapy or surgery.
There's no proven way to prevent throat cancer from occurring. However, oncologists believe that a healthy lifestyle significantly reduces the risk of developing cancer.
It's recommended to stop smoking or don't start smoking, drink alcohol only in moderation, choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, protect yourself from HPV.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/throat-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20366462
