HEAD AND NECK SURGERY

It is recommended you see an Ear, Nose, Throat Head and Neck Surgeon for any of the following symptoms lasting longer than 2 weeks.

1) A LUMP IN THE NECK — Not all lumps are cancer. However, cancers originating in the head and neck usually spread to the neck first.

2) CHANGE IN THE VOICE — Hoarseness of voice in those who smoke is an early sign of some cancers of the Larynx (voice box). Don't delay a specialist's examination if you have this symptom.

3) A GROWTH IN THE MOUTH — Cancers of the tongue cause a sore or swelling which does not go away. Initially there may be no pain. When bleeding occurs, this is a late finding. This symptom associated with a lump in the neck is SERIOUS. If indicated a biopsy will determine the exact nature of the problem.

4) NASAL OR ORAL BLEEDING — Tumors of the nose, sinuses, mouth, throat, lungs can cause bleeding. If blood appears in the saliva or phlegm for more than a few days, see a specialist.

5) SWALLOWING PROBLEMS — Cancer of the throat or esophagus (swallowing tube) makes swallowing solid foods difficult. Liquids can also be troublesome. If you have trouble almost every time you swallow, consult a throat specialist. An XRay or direct examination will be performed to find the cause.

6) CHANGES IN THE SKIN — Basal Cell cancer of the skin is the most common form of Head and Neck Cancer. It is very common on the face, ears, arms and neck, especially here in the desert. It is easily diagnosed and treated. Other more serious skin cancers, like Malignant Melanoma can be diagnosed and treated effectively, IF THEY ARE FOUND EARLY! Consult a head and neck surgeon for any skin tumor that does not go away or bleeds!
CLICK HERE for more information on The Danger Signs of Skin Cancer

7) PERSISTENT EARACHE — Constant pain in and around the ear can be a sign of infection or tumor growth in the throat. This is serious when associated with difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or a lump in the neck. Immediate evaluation by a Head and Neck Surgeon is necessary for diagnosis and treatment.

IDENTIFYING RISK — Prolonged exposure to tobacco (smoking, snuff) alcoholic beverages, sunlight all are associated with a higher incidence of head and neck cancer.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO — REMEMBER! If you think you have any of the warning signs described above, call today for an appointment to get a thorough evaluation. BE SAFE- see a specialist early and practice good health habits which will make these diseases unlikely to occur.