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If you’ve been struggling with a sore throat for weeks, you should make an appointment with your doctor to rule out anything more serious, such as cancer affecting your voicebox. What are the symptoms of cancer that can affect your throat?
Throat cancer is the name given to a range of cancers affecting your voice box and oeseophagus.
However “throat cancer” isn’t itself a diagnosis, so you won’t hear a doctor use this phrase.
Symptoms of cancer can affect many different parts of your neck and head, so if you have any symptoms in this area, you should get them seen by a doctor straight away.
If you’re concerned about symptoms affecting your throat, your doctor may investigate whether you show other signs of larynx cancer.
The larynx is the proper name for what’s more commonly known as your voicebox.
Your larynx sits above your windpipe and in front of your oesophagus.
What are the early signs of laryngeal cancer?
The most common sign of laryngeal cancer is having a sore, hoarse, voice for more than three weeks.
The NHS says if you have a hoarse voice for more than three weeks, you should see your GP.
Other symptoms you might notice in your throat are:
- A change in your voice
- Pain or difficulty swallowing
- A lump or swelling in your neck
- A long-lasting cough or breathlessness
- A persistent sore throat or earache
- A high-pitched wheezing noise when you breathe
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If you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your GP.
In all likeliness, they could be related to a less serious condition like laryngitis, but catching cancer early gives you the best chance at beating it.
What causes laryngeal cancer?
Your risk of laryngeal cancer is thought to increase if you:
- Smoke
- Drink a lot of alcohol
- Have a family history of laryngeal cancer
- Eat an unhealthy diet, which is low in fruits and vegetables
- Are exposed to certain chemicals like asbestos or coal dust
This type of cancer is more common in those aged over 60.
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