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FAQ
The signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers may include a lump or a sore that does not heal, a sore throat or ear pain that does not go away (especially if just on one side), difficulty in swallowing, and a change or hoarseness in the voice. These symptoms may also be caused by other, less serious conditions. It is important to check with a doctor or dentist about any of these symptoms. Symptoms that may affect specific areas of the head and neck include the following:
- Mouth – Signs and symptoms of mouth or oral cavity cancer can include any of the following
- A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
- A sore or ulcer that does not heal within 1-2 weeks
- Swelling of the jaw or roof of mouth
- Loose teeth
- Changes in how your dentures fit
- Bleeding
- Persistent pain in the mouth
- Numbness of the tongue or the skin of the chin
- Changes in speech or swallowing
- Foul smell in the mouth or persistent bad breath
- Weight loss
- Neck mass
- Trismus or difficulty opening your mouth
- Back of throat – Signs and symptoms of throat cancer can include any of the following
- Throat pain, especially pain that is just on one side
- Ear pain, especially pain that is just on one side
- Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
- Changes in speech
- Weight loss
- Bleeding
- Neck mass
- Difficulty breathing
- Voice box
- Nose and sinuses
- Spit glands
- Voice Box – Signs and symptoms of throat cancer can include any of the following
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Coughing or choking when eating
- Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
- Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- Coughing up blood
- Ear pain, especially pain that is just on one side
- Weight loss
- Neck mass
- Nose and Sinuses – Signs and symptoms of nose and sinus cancer can include any of the following
- Nasal obstruction/difficulty breathing through your nose
- Facial pressure or pain
- Nose bleeds
- Face or cheek numbness
- Vision changes, especially new blurry or double vision or eye swelling
- Difficulty hearing, especially just on one side
- Swelling of the cheek or the roof of the mouth, pain in the upper teeth
- Foul smell in the nose
- Weight loss
- Neck mass
- Spit Glands – Signs and symptoms of spit gland cancer can include any of the following
- Swelling or a mass under the jaw or around the ear (typically in front of the ear or just under the earlobe)
- Facial weakness on one side
- Facial numbness on one side
- Pain, especially one-sided ear, jaw, or neck pain
- Weight loss