Head and neck cancer is the term used to describe a group of cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, salivary glands and related areas. These cancers most often begin in the mucous membranes. The majority are squamous cell carcinomas, a type that forms in the thin, moist tissues of the mouth and throat.
What are the first signs of head and neck cancer?
Head and neck cancer can show up as sores in your mouth or throat that do not go away, often with pain radiating up to the ear. You may have trouble swallowing and notice a change in your voice or speech. Sometimes, the first sign is a lump or swelling in your neck.
Signs of advanced cancers may include coughing up blood, or difficulty breathing. Facial expressions can even be affected.
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Where does head and neck cancer appear?
Head and neck cancer typically show up in the following areas of the body:
- Mouth, lips and tongue
- Throat (pharynx)
- Voice box (larynx)
- Sinuses and nasal cavities
- Salivary glands
- Skin on the head and neck
- Thyroid gland
These cancers develop when cells undergo genetic mutations and begin growing uncontrollably. This forms tumors that may spread to other parts of the body.
Because early symptoms can be subtle, early diagnosis is key to improved outcomes. Many signs may not seem serious at first but ignoring them could lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Catching head and neck cancer early helps lead to successful treatment. You should talk to a health care provider if you notice anything unusual.
What are the common symptoms of head and neck cancer?
Symptoms vary based on the type and location of the cancer, but common warning signs include:
- Persistent mouth sores that do not heal
- A lump or mass in the neck, mouth, or throat
- Sore throat or a sensation that something is stuck
- Voice changes or hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing or moving the jaw
- Unexplained weight loss
- White or red patches in the mouth
- Chronic ear pain or trouble hearing
These symptoms should always be evaluated promptly, especially if they last more than two weeks.
You should get immediate medical attention if you notice emergency symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, or severe facial pain.
Explore more about head and neck cancer symptoms
How can you reduce your risk of head and neck cancer?
While not all causes of head and neck cancer are fully understood, there are some ways to help prevent it:
- Avoid tobacco products: Smoking and smokeless tobacco use significantly raises your risk.
- Limit alcohol use: Heavy alcohol consumption on its own can raise your risk, but it also increases the effects of tobacco.
- Protect against HPV: Human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV-16, is a major contributor to oropharyngeal cancers. Getting vaccinated against HPV can reduce your risk.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Poor dental health has been linked to increased cancer risk.
- Use sun protection: Skin cancers of the head and neck can be reduced with sunscreen and protective clothing.
- Maintain regular checkups: Dentists and physicians can spot early warning signs during routine visits.
See why you should partner with a primary care provider for your health
Learn more about causes and risk factors for head and neck cancers
Innovative care for head and neck cancers leads to successful outcomes
UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center offers some of the most advanced, collaborative care available for head and neck cancers. The head and neck cancer team includes oncologists, otolaryngologists, head and neck surgeons, reconstructive surgeons and neurosurgeons. They all work together to create personalized treatment plans.
Our state-of-the-art treatments include:
- Advanced surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy: Our skilled surgical team specializes in transoral robotic surgery (TORS). This approach helps preserve your ability to speak, swallow and eat. It also doesn’t create visible scars.
- Complex microvascular surgery: This procedure rebuilds areas of the face or neck affected by cancer treatment.
- Leading-edge clinical trials: These give patients access to innovative treatment, such as immunotherapy, that are not yet widely available.
- Comprehensive support: Patients can receive speech therapy, nutrition services and ongoing patient education.
See why there's new hope for patients with head and neck cancer
Reducing the risk, staying one step ahead of head and neck cancer
Head and neck cancer can be life altering, but early detection and expert treatment significantly improve outcomes. Awareness of symptoms, risk factors and prevention strategies empowers people to take control of their health.
The first step toward effective head and neck cancer treatment is an accurate diagnosis. You can make an appointment with the UC Davis Health Department of Otolaryngology by calling 916-734-5400.
Read about our cancer center's NCI grant to advance immunotherapy in head and neck cancer
Listen to the Beat Cancer podcast on Head and Neck Cancer with Andrew Birkland
This blog was medically reviewed by Andrew Birkeland, associate professor in the UC Davis Health Department of Otolaryngology.
