Neck Mass: Cancers that start anywhere in the head and neck usually spread first to the glands in the neck and then to other places. When a mass in the neck that has been present for more than two weeks is noticed, an ENT specialist should be consulted. Of course, not all palpable masses in the neck are always cancer, but they may be a symptom of mouth, throat, larynx, thyroid gland or lymph node or blood cancers. Such masses are usually painless and grow gradually.
Hoarseness: The presence of hoarseness in the patient for more than two weeks along with a mass in the neck should suggest laryngeal cancer. Long-term smoking and alcohol use are important risk factors in these patients. In such a case, an ENT specialist should be consulted as soon as possible. Your doctor can examine your larynx and vocal cords in an easy and painless procedure.
Even if not all hoarseness means cancer, in case of long-term illnesses, you should consult your doctor in order not to leave anything to chance. Hoarseness may also occur due to non-cancerous reasons such as nodules, polyps, vocal cord paralysis, laryngitis, or psychological problems.
Wound in the Mouth: Cancers that start in places such as the tongue, floor of the mouth, cheeks and gums manifest themselves with wounds and swelling that do not heal. These sores may be painless and may bleed. If a wound in the mouth does not heal for three weeks, a biopsy should be performed. Accompanying swelling in the neck increases the risk of cancer.
Difficulty in Swallowing: In case of increasing difficulty in swallowing (difficulty in swallowing solid foods first and then liquids), weight loss and swelling in the neck, it is necessary to consult a doctor without delay. It is important to investigate the cause by examination, radiological evaluation of the esophagus, and endoscopy.
