Throat cancer is also known as "oropharyngeal cancer," and it develops in the upper part of the throat, just behind the mouth and tongue. The American Cancer Society reports that throat cancer cells can develop in the back of the tongue, the rear of the top of the mouth, the side and rear walls of the throat, and the tonsils. While throat cancer does manifest itself with symptoms, they are symptoms that are common to other disorders and diseases, which makes it more difficult for throat cancer to be diagnosed early. In fact, the ACS states that it is often a dental practitioner that first discovers throat cancer in a patient. It is important to know the symptoms of throat cancer to help with early detection.
Sore Throat
A major symptom of throat cancer is a sore throat that will not go away. Often, sore throats are treated with antibiotics, but antibiotics will not help a sore throat that is related to throat cancer, therefore, according to the New York Time's Health Guide, a sore throat that remains after antibiotic treatment can be a symptom of throat cancer.
Voice Changes
The Mayo Clinic lists a symptom of throat cancer as a voice change. This change can be higher or lower, but it usually sounds hoarse. Throat cancer often develops in the back portion of the throat, which is where the voice box is located, causing changes in the voice.
Mouth Symptoms
The Cancer Treatment Centers of America lists several specific symptoms, found in the mouth, that are typical of throat cancer. These symptoms are bleeding, red or white patches in the mouth and near the throat, and a lump, which may or may not be painful. Pain may also accompany eating or drinking, as chewing and swallowing can be affected by lumps. Pain can also spread to the jawline and the ears.
