Advances in medical technology, treatment, and technique have significantly improved the survival rates of various cancers, including certain types of throat cancer. However, early diagnosis and treatment are critical components of a successful outcome.

Doctors Mark Glyman and Eric Swanson are Harvard-trained surgeons who use their extensive skills to treat conditions affecting the head, neck, face, mouth/dentition, and throat. Services offered through their practice, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Nevada, include the most advanced surgical treatments available for throat cancer.

Read what these experts say about what increases your risk of developing throat cancer and symptoms that may signal a problem.

Types of throat cancer

Throat cancer is identified according to the type of cancer cells involved as well as where the cancer is located within your throat (pharynx) or voice box (larynx).

The most common throat cancer in the United States is squamous cell carcinoma, which affects the flat cells lining the throat. Although much less common, adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that involves glandular tissue.

Physicians also categorize throat cancer according to its location. Pharyngeal cancers involve the:

• Upper throat just behind your nose (nasopharynx)

• Area of your throat that’s behind your mouth, including your tonsils (oropharynx)

• Lower portion of your throat just above the voice box (hypopharynx or laryngopharynx)

Laryngeal cancer forms in the larynx and can be found just above the vocal cords (glottis), just below the glottis, or on the vocal cords themselves. The small flap of cartilage (epiglottis) that prevents food and liquids from entering your windpipe is also vulnerable to cancer.  

What are the symptoms of throat cancer?

Signs and symptoms of throat cancer are often quite subtle initially and can vary depending on the cancer type and location, including:

• Persistent cough that may or may not produce bloody phlegm

• Frequent throat clearing

• Hoarseness or other changes in your voice tone and volume

• Sore throat

• Difficulty swallowing

• Ear pain, often occurring with swallowing

• Tinnitus or ringing in the ear(s)

• A lump or sore that doesn't heal

Many of these symptoms are commonly associated with other illnesses such as viral or bacterial infections and even allergies.

However, we do recommend that you seek evaluation by your physician should you have symptoms that last longer than expected, especially if you are at an increased risk of developing throat cancer.

Lifestyle habits and conditions that increase your risk of throat cancer include:

• Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco

• Excessive alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use

• Poor dental hygiene

• Lack of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet

• History of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

As with many medical issues, an accurate diagnosis and early medical care provide the most successful treatment outcome for throat cancer.

How do you treat throat cancer?

The surgeons at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Nevada have extensive experience in the most effective and advanced surgical techniques available for throat cancer, including laser surgery. They work closely with other members of your cancer care team to coordinate your treatment strategy, which, depending on the location and stage of your cancer, may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, etc.

For more information about the surgical treatment we offer for throat cancer and other head and neck pathologies, schedule an evaluation at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Nevada today.