- What Are Head and Neck Cancers?
- How Do You Treat Head and Neck Cancers?
- What Are the Benefits of Treatment for Head and Neck Cancers?
- Head and Neck Cancer Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions about Head and Neck Cancer
- Compassionate Care for Head and Neck Cancers
- Get In Touch
- Related Services
- Related Posts
What Are Head and Neck Cancers?
Head and neck cancer is a broad term for cancers that develop in areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, nose, sinuses, and salivary glands. Although these cancers begin in different places, they share an important characteristic: they can affect parts of the body involved in speaking, eating, swallowing, and breathing. At Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat, we take a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating a range of head and neck cancers throughout the Greater New Jersey Shore area, helping patients navigate each step with personalized support and education. From radiation therapy and medical oncology to advanced surgical treatments, we provide comprehensive care for different types of head and neck cancers, partnering with specialists throughout the region based on each individual's needs. If you've noticed unusual growths, unexplained pain, mouth sores that don't heal, or challenges affecting your ability to speak or swallow, schedule an exam at Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat in Neptune, Holmdel, or Manahawkin, NJ to learn if you might have head and neck cancer and discuss your treatment options.
How Do You Treat Head and Neck Cancers?
The most appropriate treatment for head and neck cancer depends on the type of cancer you have, where it's located, and how far it has progressed. During your evaluation, we'll discuss your symptoms before examining your mouth, throat, and neck with specialized endoscopes or diagnostic imaging. In some cases, your surgeon may take a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of abnormal tissue for further testing.
Head and neck cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, medication-based cancer treatment, or a combination of approaches. Because head and neck cancers can affect areas involved in speaking, swallowing, eating, and breathing, our team will carefully consider how to maintain these functions as much as possible while treating your condition. We also work closely with specialists in medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and radiology when additional care is needed. We will explain your diagnosis, walk you through the recommended treatment, and answer your questions so you understand what lies ahead and can make informed decisions about your care.
What Are the Benefits of Treatment for Head and Neck Cancers?
Many head and neck cancers are very treatable when caught early in their development, which is why it's important to seek care as soon as possible if you've started to notice unusual growths or unexplained symptoms. The benefits of partnering with Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat for your head and neck cancer treatment include:
- Easing pain and discomfort caused by cancerous growths
- Making eating and swallowing more comfortable
- Improving your ability to speak and communicate
- Removing obstructions to help you breathe more easily
- Reducing uncomfortable swelling and pressure
- Helping you return to everyday activities with greater comfort
Head and Neck Cancer Reviews
Dr. Kenneth Newkirk extremely knowledgeable in working with head and neck cancers. Straight forward and is well respected in his field. I would recommend him to anyone!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Head and Neck Cancer
How common is head and neck cancer?
According to the National Cancer Institute, head and neck cancers make up about 4% of cancers diagnosed in the United States. They are more than twice as common in men as in women and are diagnosed more often after age 50, though they can affect individuals at any age.
What are some of the most common cancers affecting the head and neck?
Some of the most common types include oral cancer, which can affect the lips, tongue, gums, and other areas inside the mouth; oropharyngeal cancer, which develops around the tonsils and back of the tongue; and laryngeal cancer, which affects the voice box. Other examples include nasopharyngeal cancer, salivary gland cancer, and cancers of the nasal cavity and sinuses.
What are the leading causes of head and neck cancer?
Tobacco and heavy alcohol use are two of the biggest risk factors for head and neck cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is another major risk factor, especially for cancers affecting the tonsils and back of the tongue. Other risks depend on the type of cancer, including long-term sun exposure for lip cancer and Epstein-Barr virus for nasopharyngeal cancer.
What are the signs of head and neck cancer?
Common signs of head and neck cancer include a lump in the neck, persistent hoarseness or other voice changes, a sore or unusual patch in the mouth that does not heal, ongoing throat pain, trouble swallowing, unexplained ear pain, and blood in the saliva. These symptoms do not automatically mean you have cancer, but if something persists or doesn't seem normal for you, it's better to have it evaluated.
Can head and neck cancer come back after treatment?
Head and neck cancer can return after treatment, but it doesn't always happen. The likelihood depends on the type and stage of cancer, along with other factors specific to your diagnosis. After treatment, our team will continue to see you for follow-up visits and watch for any changes that could indicate the cancer has returned.
Compassionate Care for Head and Neck Cancers
A diagnosis of head and neck cancer can be daunting, but it helps to have a team of experienced providers to help guide you through your experience. At Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat, we understand the unique challenges that come with head and neck cancers, and we're here to provide support and specialized treatment. Schedule a consultation at one of our ear, nose, and throat practices in Neptune, Holmdel, or Manahawkin, NJ to get the comprehensive care you deserve.
