If you’ve been struggling with a sore throat for weeks, you should make an appointment with your doctor to rule out anything more serious, such as cancer affecting your voicebox. What are the symptoms of cancer that can affect your throat?
Throat cancer is the name given to a range of cancers affecting your voice box and oeseophagus.
However “throat cancer” isn’t itself a diagnosis, so you won’t hear a doctor use this phrase.
Symptoms of cancer can affect many different parts of your neck and head, so if you have any symptoms in this area, you should get them seen by a doctor straight away.
If you’re concerned about symptoms affecting your throat, your doctor may investigate whether you show other signs of larynx cancer.
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What causes laryngeal cancer?
Your risk of laryngeal cancer is thought to increase if you:
- Smoke
- Drink a lot of alcohol
- Have a family history of laryngeal cancer
- Eat an unhealthy diet, which is low in fruits and vegetables
- Are exposed to certain chemicals like asbestos or coal dust
This type of cancer is more common in those aged over 60.