Throat Cancer

Symptoms

The most common risk factors associated with cancers of the larynx and pharynx are smoking tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. The combination of drinking and smoking is especially conducive to throat cancer development. If any of these symptoms are present for more than two months, it's wise to be seen by a doctor:

• Persistent sore throat
• Pain or difficulty swallowing
• Ongoing hoarseness
• Burning in the throat when swallowing orange juice or other acidic foods
• Persistent unilateral ear pain
• Difficulty breathing
• A lump in the neck
• A visible sore on the tongue or in the mouth