Head & Neck Cancer Surgeon in Kolkata

Dr. Suvadip Chakrabarti

Head and Neck Cancer

What is Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and neck cancers arise from abnormal cells that grow uncontrollably, potentially invading and destroying healthy tissues. Head and neck cancer surgery is the most effective treatment for the disease.

Types of Head and Neck Cancer

Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

Symptoms of head and neck cancer vary depending on the location of the cancer but may include:

A sore throat that does not go away

A lump in the neck
Difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness
Changes in voice
A sore in the mouth that does not heal
Numbness in the face

For more information, read our blog – Understanding Head & Neck Cancer: Risk Factors and Symptoms

Causes of Head and Neck Cancer

Symptoms of head and neck cancer vary depending on the location of the cancer but may include:

Tobacco use

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, as well as using smokeless tobacco, significantly increases the risk.

alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption

Drinking heavily can increase the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.

Human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Certain types of HPV are linked to oropharyngeal cancers.

chemicals

Exposure to certain chemicals

Occupational exposure to asbestos, formaldehyde, or other chemicals can increase the risk.

Poor oral hygiene

Poor oral hygiene

Neglecting oral health can contribute to the development of mouth cancer.

Genetic predisposition

Genetic predisposition

A family history of head and neck cancer can increase your risk.

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    The Stages of Head and Neck Cancer

    Stages of head and neck cancer are usually classified from I to IV based on the following:

    Stage I: Cancer is small and localized to the head or neck area.
    Stage II: Cancer is larger but still confined to the original site.
    Stage III: Cancer may have spread to nearby lymph nodes or other tissues.
    Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant parts of the body or multiple lymph nodes and surrounding tissues.

    Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer

    The most effective treatment for head and neck cancer is surgery. The head and neck cancer medical procedure helps remove tumors or affected tissues.

    If you are suffering from head and neck cancer, contact us for any medical attention or surgery-related queries. We prefer treating patients with robotic cancer surgery procedures over traditional methods for higher accuracy, quicker recovery, and lesser hospitalization duration.

    How to Prevent Head and Neck Cancer?

    Follow these key prevention strategies to reduce the risk of developing head and neck cancer.

    Limit alcohol consumption:

    Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption significantly raises the chances of developing head and neck cancers, especially when combined with tobacco use.

    Get vaccinated against HPV:

    The HPV vaccine can protect against certain types of head and neck cancer.

    Maintain good oral hygiene:

    Regular brushing and dental check-ups can help prevent oral cancer.

    Protect your skin:

    Use sunscreen on your lips and face to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

    Eat a healthy diet:

    A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support your health.

    Regular check-ups:

    Regular dental and medical check-ups can help detect early signs of cancer.

    Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products:

    This is the most effective way to reduce the risk of having any type of head and neck cancer.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. How is head and neck cancer diagnosed?

    The diagnosis of head and neck cancer usually involves the following.

    • Physical examination and review of medical history
    • Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans
    • Biopsy of the suspicious tissue
      Endoscopy to examine the affected areas
    2. Can head and neck cancer be cured?
    The chances of cure depend on several factors, including the cancer’s type, stage, and location. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the outlook.
    3. What are the early warning signs of head and neck cancer?

    Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and lumps in the neck are common early symptoms.

    4. Will I lose my voice if I have head and neck cancer?
    Not necessarily. The impact on voice depends on the location of the cancer and the type of treatment received. For instance, head and neck cancer surgery may cause voice changes.
    5. Can I still work while undergoing head and neck cancer treatment?
    The ability to work depends on the nature of your head and neck cancer treatment.