Early signs
Manifestations depend on which part of the larynx the tumor appears in. When the vocal fold is damaged, the very first and most valuable sign is a change in the voice, which does not go away and gradually increases: the voice becomes hoarse, rough, and weak. Many people chalk it up to a cold, smoking or fatigue and see a doctor months later. Tumors above the vocal folds cause a feeling of a lump, pain when swallowing and pain radiating to the ear, and below the folds - difficulty breathing. An enlarged, dense lymph node in the neck is sometimes the first noticeable symptom.
- Persistent increasing hoarseness
- Sensation of a foreign body in the throat
- Pain when swallowing, radiating to the ear
- Difficulty breathing during exercise
- Tight knot on the neck
- Cough, sometimes streaked with blood
Risk factors
Smoking is the main factor: the risk directly depends on the length of time and the number of cigarettes, and this applies to any form of tobacco, including nasvay and hookah. Alcohol enhances the effects of tobacco, and when combined, the risk increases many times over. Occupational hazards are important: contact with asbestos, nickel, petroleum distillation products, wood and textile dust. Chronic inflammatory changes in the larynx, precancerous conditions, papillomatosis, and reflux of acidic stomach contents increase the risk. Quitting smoking reduces your risk over time, so quitting is beneficial at any age.
- Smoking cigarettes, hookah, using nasvay
- Alcohol abuse
- Combination of tobacco and alcohol
- Occupational exposure to dust and chemicals
- Chronic laryngitis and precancerous changes
- Laryngeal papillomatosis
- Male gender and age over 50 years
Diagnostics
The examination begins with an examination of the larynx with an endoscope: the doctor sees changes in the mucous membrane, assesses the mobility of the folds and the extent of the process. The diagnosis is confirmed only histologically, so a biopsy must be taken. Next, the stage is clarified: a computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scan of the neck, an ultrasound examination of the lymph nodes, and an examination of the lungs are performed, since concomitant changes are often found in smokers. An assessment of general condition, nutrition and swallowing function is mandatory, as this influences the choice of treatment.
- Endoscopic examination of the larynx
- Biopsy with histological examination
- CT or MRI of the neck with contrast
- Ultrasound of neck lymph nodes
- CT scan of the chest
- Assessing swallowing and nutritional status
- Consultation with an oncologist and radiotherapist
Treatment
The treatment plan is drawn up by a team of specialists and depends on the stage, location of the tumor and the patient's condition. In the early stages, radiation therapy or endoscopic surgery through the mouth using a laser are used: both approaches preserve the voice and give good results. For widespread tumors, combined treatment is used, including removal of part or all of the larynx with immediate or delayed voice rehabilitation, as well as chemoradiotherapy. If the larynx is removed, modern methods of speech rehabilitation allow you to restore communication - specialists teach this.
- Radiation therapy in the early stages
- Endoscopic laser surgery
- Organ-preserving resections of the larynx
- Laryngectomy for a common process
- Chemoradiation therapy according to indications
- Removal of lymph nodes in the neck if affected
- Speech rehabilitation after treatment
- Complete cessation of smoking and alcohol
Surveillance and prevention
After completion of treatment, regular examinations are required: in the first years - more often, then less often, according to the oncologist's schedule. The goal is to detect in time the return of the disease or the appearance of a new tumor, the risk of which remains increased in smokers. Continuing to smoke after treatment worsens results and increases the likelihood of complications, so quitting is part of therapy. Oral care, good nutrition, sessions with a speech therapist for voice and swallowing disorders, and support from loved ones are also important. Prevention for healthy people comes down to quitting tobacco, moderation in alcohol and timely treatment for hoarseness.
- Regular check-ups according to schedule
- Complete cessation of smoking and alcohol
- Classes with a speech therapist and phoniatrist
- Nutrition and weight control
- Oral and dental care
- Call immediately if symptoms return
