Cancer of the head and neck account for around four percent of all cancers in the United States, according to the College of American Pathologists. Several different forms of cancer may affect the neck, but the most common cancer involving the throat is squamous cell carcinoma. A tumor may grow in the throat, lymph nodes, thyroid gland or voice box. Although most tumors in the neck do not cause symptoms, tumors or masses in the lymph nodes in the neck may cause symptoms.
Neck Lumps and Sores
Cancer of the neck may cause lumps or masses in the neck. Open sores that do not heal may occur on the skin of the neck, according to MedlinePlus. The mass or lump in the neck may not cause any pain.
Throat Masses and Sores
Sores and masses may form in the throat for individuals with neck tumors. The sores in the throat may not heal, which is the most common symptom of neck cancer, according to Cancer.net. The sores may cause bleeding into the throat.
Sore Throat and Difficulty Swallowing
A persistent sore throat is possible for individuals with a neck tumor. The sore throat may persist even after trying normal soothing techniques such as a throat drop. Swelling may occur in the throat from a tumor in the neck and may cause an individual to have trouble swallowing.
Voice Changes and Ear Pain
A tumor in the neck around the voice box may cause a change in the voice, causing an individual to sound hoarse. Some individuals may experience pain in the ears as referred pain from the throat.
