Since early detection is important for the successful treatment of cancer, you must know which symptoms to keep an eye on.

Pain

This is a prevalent symptom and is usually experienced in the ear and throat, along with discomfort in the mouth. Unexplained, chronic pain that intensifies during speaking and swallowing indicates the need to get evaluated by a head and neck cancer specialist.

Numbness

The loss of sensation in the mouth, neck and face could be a significant indicator of head or throat cancer and neck cancer. Persistent numbness is usually a result of a tumour pressing on the nerves. Visit our Head and Neck Oncology Department at the earliest for early diagnosis.

Sore Mouth and Tongue/ Ulcers

Sores inside the mouth or on the tongue that do not heal and cause pain and discomfort due to repeated bleeding are a serious warning. While normal ulcers and sores are common, if they do not heal in a few weeks, it is best to consult a head and neck cancer specialist.

Infections of the Sinus

While sinus infections are common, chronic sinus infections that do not respond to standard medication could be a sign of cancer. The symptoms may include congestion, blockages, pain and nosebleeds.

Patches in the Gum

This is one of the earliest indicators of head and neck cancer. You will notice red or white patches on the lining of the mouth, gums and tongue. This is known as leukoplakia or erythroplakia. If left untreated, the patches can lead to malignant lesions. Regular dental checkups can ensure early detection.

It is crucial to recognise and address the symptoms at the earliest to achieve effective recovery. At Narayana Health, we not only conduct a thorough physical examination but also use endoscopic procedures, radiology images and biopsies for accurate diagnosis. Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure quick and accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosis

A surgical oncologist may start the diagnosis of head, neck and throat cancer by evaluating the patient’s medical history and then conducting a physical examination and recommending the required diagnostic tests.

For the physical examination, the doctor will visually inspect the oral and nasal cavities, throat, neck and tongue. Small mirrors and lights are used to check for lumps in and around the lips, gums, cheeks and neck.

Endoscopic procedures may be required to examine the areas inside the body.

Samples of blood, urine or cells from the nodes might be sent to the laboratory for additional tests.

An X-ray, CT scan, PET scan and/or MRI might be recommended to obtain images of the head and neck areas.

A biopsy is the only sure procedure in head and neck oncology to confirm the presence of cancer. Here, a small part of the tissue is removed from the affected area and examined under a microscope.

Treatment

Every cancer patient is different. Therefore, a skilled team of surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, onco-pathologists, radiation oncologists and imaging specialists work together to evaluate the patient's condition and chart out a customised treatment plan. The following treatments for head and neck cancer are available at Narayana Health:

Surgery: Surgery involves removal of the affected tissue or tumour along with some normal healthy tissue to prevent any chances of recurrence or relapse, removal of the lymph nodes in the neck and reconstruction with plastic surgical procedures. Reconstruction may be local, regional or microvascular procedures to ensure early healing, recovery and preservation of form and function. At Narayana Health we have expertise in ablation (removal of the tumour) and reconstruction.

State of the art microvascular reconstruction of both soft tissue and hard tissue along with virtual surgical planning, dental implant placement ensures best recovery of form and function

Radiation: Different types of radiation therapy may be suggested, such as 3DCRT, IMRT or IGRT.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is usually given with radiation therapy. Chemotherapy can kill the fast-growing cancer cells in the body.

Targeted therapy: Unlike chemotherapy, the drugs used in targeted therapy selectively kill cancer cells. However, its application for head and neck cancer treatment is limited.

Immunotherapy : The decision to use immunotherapy would be made based on a few investigations to assess various biomarkers and based on the multidisciplinary tumour board expertise

Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programmes are doctor-supervised to help cancer patients get back to their daily activities quicker and improve their overall well-being. The rehabilitation involves close supervision of the speech and swallow functions after surgery or during radiation and chemotherapy, monitoring the nutritional requirements during treatment, dental rehabilitation post-surgery, pain management and psychological support. At Narayana health our team of specialists in speech and swallow, psycho-oncology and dental oncology provide optimum support and care during treatment to ensure the early rehabilitation.

Head And Neck Oncology