Throat cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the tissue of the pharynx and larynx. The pharynx is a hollow tube that begins behind the nose and ends at the top of the trachea and esophagus. The larynx is an organ that contains the vocal cords and is located between the pharynx and the trachea The staff of the National Cancer Institute estimates that 25,380 new cases of throat cancer are diagnosed in the United States this year. Recognizing the early signs of throat cancer can lead to early detection and a better prognosis.
Hoarseness
Throat cancer frequently develops on the vocal cords before spreading to larynx, pharynx and trachea. An early warning sign of throat cancer is unexplained hoarseness. A change in voice that does not improve in two weeks is a reason for concern. According to the American Cancer Society, cancer that develops above and below the larynx does not cause hoarseness. Cancer of these areas of the throat is often not detected until later stages of the disease. A person with these symptoms should consult a physician.
Pain When Swallowing
The process of swallowing involves the mouth, throat and the esophagus. The National Cancer Institute fact sheet points out that cancer in the larynx causes the symptom of pain when swallowing. A person may have the sensation that something is stuck in the back of the throat. A persistent sore throat and difficulty swallowing often accompany these symptoms.
Swelling in the Neck
An early sign of throat cancer is any kind of swelling in the neck. This can present as a lump that appears on the outside of the neck, swelling, pain and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. Another sign is a sore that does not heal.
