- A type of throat cancer affecting the larynx (voice box)
- The larynx is present above the windpipe, which helps to breathe, swallow, and talk.
- It is the most common head and neck cancer, with an incidence of 26% in men and 13% in women.
Types of Larynx Cancer
- Early Larynx Cancer – The tumor is small, and cancer does not spread beyond the larynx
- Advanced Larynx Cancer – The tumor is large and spreads to the throat, neck lymph nodes, lungs, and other body areas
Laryngeal Cancer: Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms related to laryngeal cancer are:
- Coughing of Blood
- Lump in the Neck
- Pain While Swallowing
- Difficulty Breathing
- Sore Throat
- Pain in the Ears
- Hoarse Voice
- Weight Loss
- Difficulty in Speaking
- Feeling Obstruction in the Throat
- Noisy Breathing
- Change in the Pitch of The Voice
If you experience any of these symptoms, then it is the right time to visit your doctor!
Risk Factors for Larynx Cancer
- Long-standing throat infections
- Smoking
- Viral infections (human papillomavirus (HPV) infection)
- Excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco
- Long term voice abuse (Excessive Shouting)
- Exposure to industrial chemicals (asbestos, gasoline fumes, and paint)
Diagnosis of Larynx Cancer
Diagnosis of larynx cancer begins with your medical history. Your doctor will examine your throat and neck and order specific tests if you have cancer symptoms.
Tests include,
- Physical examination of throat and neck
- Blood tests
- CT or MRI scans
- Chest X-ray (To see the spread of cancer to the lungs)
- Laryngoscopy (To examine your larynx)
- PET scan (To detect abnormal areas)
- Biopsy (a small piece of any abnormal tissue is examined under a microscope)
Treatment for Larynx Cancer
Options for treating laryngeal cancer are:
- Early Stage – Laser or radiation therapy
- Advanced Stage – Combination of chemotherapy and radiation
- Very Advanced Stage – Surgery and a combination of radiation and chemotherapy
Diet Recommendations for Larynx Cancer
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables that are sources of vitamins and minerals.
- Consume plenty of cheese, yogurt, milk and soy drinks, and water to reduce cancer risk.
Post Operative care For Larynx Cancer
- Pain medications (as prescribed)
- Managing swallowing problems or ulcers in the digestive tract
- Diet recommendations to make sure you’re eating and swallowing
- Physical therapy for scarring in your neck or trouble opening your mouth
How Can You Prevent Larynx Cancer?
There is no specific way to prevent larynx cancer. But you can lower your risk by opting for a healthy lifestyle.
- Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get early treatment for underlying causes like viral infections and long-standing sore throat
