Cancers of the head and neck are becoming increasingly common in America. Though this particular category only accounts for about three percent of the nation’s cancer-related illnesses, research shows at least 52,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. While a cure has yet to be found, several treatments are available, such as chemotherapy, radiation, and Neck Cancer Surgery in Bethlehem PA.
As is the case with most potentially fatal conditions, early detection can have a profound impact on the type of treatment necessary as well as its overall effectiveness. Unfortunately, many people wait until head and neck cancers are in their more advanced stages before visiting their doctors because symptoms mimic those of common conditions like colds or the flu. Warning signs include:
* Fatigue
* Weight loss
* Ear and neck pain
* Breathing difficulties
* Nasal congestion
* Swollen lymph nodes
* Sore throat
* Cough
* Chest congestion
Simply experiencing one or more of these symptoms isn’t necessarily a cause for concern, but if they’re persistent or seem to progressively worsen, a precautionary visit to the doctor may be in order. Neck Cancer Surgery in Bethlehem PA to remove tumors may need to be combined with additional treatments to successfully achieve remission. In many cases, surgery is a last resort.
While surgically removing a tumor in the neck or head provides obvious benefits, the process may also come with certain side effects. Patients often experience numbness in the affected area or lose functionality altogether. The aftermath of surgery sometimes resembles the effects of a stroke, leaving the patient unable to chew or speak clearly. Following a laryngectomy, the patient won’t be able to speak at all.
Though surgeries of this nature have their own negative consequences, patients are usually able to make at least a partial recovery with the help of physical and speech therapies. Emotional support, nutritional counseling, and other follow-up care may also be included in the recovery process. Despite the repercussions, these surgeries save lives and are considered by a number of patients to be well worth the risks involved. If you’re consistently experiencing a range of the symptoms listed above, contact an ear, nose, and throat specialist like those at our website to book an appointment.