Throat cancer may sound frightening, but thanks to medical advancements, features for early detection and effective treatment have significantly improved the prognosis. One of the most common questions that patients and their loved ones might have is, “Is throat cancer curable?” The answer is dependent on a variety of factors that include the stage upon diagnosis and the specifics of the type of cancer. But if we can obtain an early diagnosis and provide complete care, many patients will go on to lead healthy lives, cancer-free. In this article, we will discuss in detail about throat cancer and Throat cancer treatment.
What is throat cancer?
Throat cancer relates to cancerous growths that develop in the pharynx, which is a hollow tube that runs from the back of the nose to the upper part of the windpipe, or larynx (voice box). Throat cancer is classified as a head and neck cancer, but may also include involvement of the tonsils or vocal cords.
There are two main types of throat cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma – the most common type, which involves flat cells lining the throat.
- Adenocarcinoma – a less common type, arising from glandular cells.
Throat cancer can be highly aggressive in its spread. It is for these reasons that early diagnosis and throat cancer treatment are critical.
What are the symptoms of throat cancer?
The early symptoms of throat cancer can often be misdiagnosed as a simple sore throat or infection. However, persistent symptoms or symptoms that continue to worsen may require further investigation. The most common symptoms of throat cancer include:
- A throat cancer lump or sore throat that lasts longer than a couple of weeks
- Persistent hoarseness or voice changes
- Problems with swallowing
- Persistent cough
- Persistent ear pain
- Weight loss with no known reason
- Swelling or lump in your neck
- Blood in saliva or phlegm
If someone has had any of these warning signs last more than two weeks, they should get properly diagnosed by a specialist.
Is Throat Cancer Curable?
Yes, throat cancer is curable, especially in its early stages. Generally, the chance of a successful outcome and cure of throat cancer relies on:
- The stage of throat cancer (early-stage throat cancers have a higher cure rate)
- Where in the throat the tumor is located and the size of the tumor
- The overall health of the patient
- The response to the treatment provided from the medical professional
For early-stage throat cancers, such as the first or second stage, the throat cancer treatment may be radiation therapy on its own, surgery on its own, or both treatments combined together. The prognosis for early-stage throat cancer is excellent. For advanced stages of throat cancer, patients may require chemoradiation to allow for the best possible outcome, with surgery done afterward.
Treatment of Throat Cancer
The treatment options available for the treatment of throat cancer include:
- A surgical approach: This is done to remove tumors or lymph nodes affected by tumor cells
- Radiation Therapy- wherein highly focused rays kill cancer cells
- Chemotherapy- a medication that kills cancer cells or shrinks an identified tumor
- Immunotherapy/Targeted Therapy- these newer therapies help improve the natural defense system of the body
Lastly, rehabilitation will be needed after the treatment process is done, possibly speech therapy and/or nutrition advice as needed to complete recovery.
If you are looking for the Best Throat cancer hospital in Mohali or the best throat cancer treatment in Chandigarh, Sohana Hospital might just be the best option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the world’s most advanced technology and North India’s most trusted ENT and Cancer specialists who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for throat cancer with the most compassionate approach! With your determination and our expertise, cancer can be conquered!