Head and neck cancers are among the more complex cancers to treat. This is primarily due to the critical areas they affect like the throat, mouth, nose, and neck.
However, early detection can make a massive difference in prognosis and treatment outcomes. That is why many people frequently ask; when is the right time to see a head and neck cancer specialist in Singapore?
More on that later, a head and neck cancer specialist, often an otolaryngologist or ENT specialist are the specialists you will want to see for the diagnosis and treatment of these cancers. In this article, we will walk you through what a head and neck cancer specialist does, the warning signs of head and neck cancer, the risk factors, and the diagnostic procedures involved.
What Is a Head and Neck Cancer Specialist?
A head and neck cancer specialist is also commonly known as an otolaryngologist or ENT specialist. Just as the name suggests, they are medical experts focused on diagnosing and treating cancers that affect the head and neck region.
The areas they deal with include the mouth, throat, nasal cavity, salivary glands, and related structures. Head and neck cancer specialists carry out a wide range of diagnostic tests, including endoscopies, biopsies, and imaging tests like CT and MRI scans.
You may also be referred to a head and neck cancer specialist in Singapore for guidance through treatment plans, including surgery to remove cancerous growths, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The main goal of a head and neck cancer specialist is not only to remove the cancer but also ensure that the vital functions of the affected areas, such as swallowing, breathing, and speaking, are preserved.
Red Flags for Head and Neck Cancer
Spotting head and neck cancer early increases the chances of successful treatment. However, the symptoms can be subtle which is why many people tend to overlook them until the cancer has progressed. Here are the red flags for head and neck cancer that may warrant a visit to a head and neck cancer specialist in Singapore;
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness that lasts more than two weeks.
- A lump or sore that doesn’t heal, particularly in the mouth, throat, or neck area.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Persistent ear pain or ringing without infection.
- Unexplained weight loss or prolonged fatigue.
- A feeling of something stuck in the throat.
Please note that each type of head and neck cancer may present unique symptoms. So the list above isn’t conclusive.
For instance, oral cancer might manifest as white or red patches inside the mouth, while throat cancer might cause persistent coughing or voice changes. Nasal cancers may involve chronic nasal congestion or bleeding. If these symptoms persist beyond 2-3 weeks, please seek medical attention.
What are the Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer?
Now, anyone can develop these cancers. However, there are certain behaviors and conditions that may increase your risk of head and neck cancer. They include;
- Tobacco and Alcohol Use: The most significant risk factors are smoking and heavy alcohol consumption. Smokers are at a considerably higher risk for cancers of the mouth, throat, and larynx. Combining smoking with alcohol increases this risk even further.
- HPV Infection: Recent studies have shown a growing link between HPV, particularly the HPV-16 strain, and oropharyngeal cancers, which affect the back of the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue. Younger patients are increasingly being diagnosed with HPV-related cancers, which tend to respond better to treatment than cancers caused by smoking.
- Environmental Exposures: Prolonged exposure to harmful substances such as asbestos, wood dust, or chemical fumes can increase the risk of head and neck cancer. This is particularly true for those in or near industrial settings.
- Genetics and Family History: A family history of head and neck cancer can also be a risk factor. It is however worth pointing out that this is less common than environmental or behavioral causes.
When to See a Head and Neck Cancer Specialist
As is the case with other cancers, early intervention is key to managing head and neck cancer and preventing it from spreading. You should plan to see a head and neck cancer specialist in Singapore as soon as possible if;
- You have Unresolved Symptoms: Persistent symptoms like difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or chronic ear pain that do not improve after two weeks should prompt you to see a specialist. Those with known risk factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, or a history of HPV should be particularly vigilant.
- Referral from Primary Care Doctor: In most cases, your primary care doctor or dentist may refer you to a head and neck cancer specialist after noticing abnormal growths or persistent symptoms during routine checkups. A specialist can provide a more thorough examination using advanced diagnostic tools.
- Routine Screenings for High-Risk Individuals: Those with high-risk factors should consider regular screenings even if they don’t show symptoms. Smokers, people with a history of HPV infection, or those with exposure to occupational hazards should stay proactive in seeking preventive care. Early screening can detect precancerous growths, making treatment less invasive and more effective.
What to Expect at a Head and Neck Cancer Specialist
When you’re referred to a head and neck cancer specialist in Singapore, they can provide several diagnostic tests that can confirm the presence of head and neck cancer. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Examinations: The specialist will perform a physical examination to check for lumps, sores, or abnormal growths in your mouth, throat, and neck. They may also use a laryngoscope to look deeper into your throat and larynx.
- Diagnostic Imaging: If the initial examination reveals abnormalities, the specialist will likely order imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans. These tests can help in determining the size, location, and extent of the tumor.
- Biopsies and Endoscopy: A biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken, is the gold standard for diagnosing cancer. The sample is analyzed in a lab to confirm if it’s cancerous. In some cases, an endoscopy might be used to take a closer look at the throat or nasal passages and obtain tissue samples from hard-to-reach areas.
It’s a Wrap
If you’re concerned about any symptoms or have a family history of head and neck cancer, please arrange to see a head and neck cancer specialist in Singapore as soon as possible. Early detection of head and neck cancer can make a crucial difference in treatment outcomes. So, don’t take chances if you’ve seen any red flags.
Do you have concerns about head and neck cancer and would love to see a specialist? Drop us a line below or pass by our clinic to schedule an appointment. Details below;
NC Tan Surgery
1 Farrer Park Station Rd, #14-02 Connexion,
Singapore 217562
+65 6443 8802
