Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancers can significantly alter a persons physical appearance since this sickness usually requires the removal of the lower jaw and requires an implant which can cause depression in patients usually loosing their will to live. When dealing with this type of disease, multidisciplinary approach is the best means of treating this cancer. Multidisciplinary approach simply means that a group of physicians decides on what treatment options to take. The treatment guidelines vary depending upon the stage of the ailment and the medication custom made for each individual. The options for the treatment are then presented to the patient, who ultimately decides on what course the oncologists, surgeons, anesthesiologist, and other specialist should take. A psychiatrist will provide emotional support for the patient.

Early detection of head and neck cancer is vital because late stage detection of this cancer will prove to be fatal since the outcome of survival has not improved in recent years despite the onset of new medical technology. A person must watch out for the following signs that may indicate symptoms of head and neck cancer like a lump in the neck that last more than two weeks needs to be checked. This is because cancer that begins in the head and neck region will spread to the lymph nodes in the neck. Swallowing problems and pain in the through that lingers for a long time. Mouth sores, changes in the voice, bringing up blood that may be caused by tumors in the mouth. Nasal obstructions, hearing loss, persistent earache or pain in or around the ear when you swallow and changes in the skin.