If you are facing head and neck cancer, you have us to help. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician who is fellowship trained and specializes in head and neck cancer surgery, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, navigators, social worker and an entire care team will work together to create a treatment plan specific to you. This means that you will not only receive the best possible care available today, but also be prepared for future treatments if needed. From diagnosis through post-treatment follow-up, you have us right by your side.
What Is Head and Neck Cancer?
This type of cancer takes place in various locations in the head or neck – inside lining of the nose, mouth and throat, thyroid, saliva glands or skin of head and neck. Most head and neck cancers are treatable or curable if caught early on. It starts when cells in this area change and grow out of control, forming a mass that becomes a tumor. Learn about our ear, nose and throat services.
Risk Factors
Besides your family medical history, the likelihood of a cancer diagnosis can rise due to other outside forces. These known risk factors include:
- Currently smoking, using tobacco or vaping
- Being a former heavy smoker or tobacco user
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor diet
- Obesity
A genetic counselor can work with you to provide guidance on your personal risk factors.
Manage My Risk Request Genetic Counseling
Signs & Symptoms
Noteworthy signs and symptoms of a head and neck tumor may display as:
- Changes in the sound of your voice or size of neck
- Persistent sore throats, frequent coughing
- Food catching or trouble swallowing
- Lump in nose, neck or throat
- Unexplained weight loss
- Skin changes
- Oral sores
Screening for Head and Neck Cancer
A head and neck cancer screening can take place by your primary care provider at your annual physical exam. Your dentist will also perform an oral cancer screening. If determined necessary, you may also need to have any of the following done:
- Visit with an ENT specialist
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Flexible laryngoscopy
- Blood test
- Biopsy
- X-ray
Book an appointment at an Avera clinic near you or contact your doctor.
Treatment Options at Avera Cancer Institute
With early detection and expert oncology treatment, there’s hope. After a head and neck cancer diagnosis is determined, there are a variety of treatments based on your specific diagnosis. Turn to Avera Cancer Institute. Our board-certified oncologists have the specialty training needed to provide personalized cancer care.
