Introduction
When it comes to cancer, early detection is key to successful treatment. Throat cancer is no exception, and knowing how to check for symptoms at home can make all the difference. While regular checkups with your medical professional are necessary, it’s important to be mindful of warning signs that may appear between doctor’s visits. In this article, we’ll explore how to perform a self-examination to check for throat cancer.
Conduct a self-exam
One of the first steps in checking for throat cancer is to perform a self-examination of the mouth and throat. This can be done easily at home, using a mirror and adequate lighting.
Begin by opening your mouth wide and using a mirror to inspect the inside of your mouth. Look for any abnormal lumps, bumps, changes in color, or texture on the tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, or the back of the throat.
Next, gently feel around the base of the tongue, under the jaw, and sides of the neck for any lumps or bumps. If anything is found, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Examine your lymph nodes
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or jawline area can be a sign of throat cancer. To check for this symptom, use your fingers to gently feel around your neck and jawline for any bumps or lumps. If you find any swelling or tenderness, seek medical attention.
Monitor your voice
Changes in the voice can be an early warning sign of throat cancer. If you find your voice sounding hoarse, raspy, or strained, monitor the symptom closely. If the changes persist for more than two weeks, seek medical attention.
Pay attention to your swallowing
Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing can be a sign of throat cancer. Monitor for any changes in swallowing habits, such as feeling like food is getting stuck in the throat or experiencing pain while swallowing. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist for more than two weeks or are accompanied by weight loss.
Check for persistent coughing
Chronic coughing or coughing up blood can be a sign of throat cancer. Monitor for persistent cough and respiratory symptoms, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist for more than two weeks or if you are coughing up blood.
Look for signs of bleeding
Unexplained bleeding, such as blood in your mouth or on your toothbrush, can be a sign of throat cancer. If you notice any unexplained bleeding in your mouth, seek medical attention immediately.
Visit a doctor
While self-examination is an important step in checking for throat cancer, it’s important to keep in mind that only a medical professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. If you notice any concerning symptoms during your self-examination, seek medical attention right away. During a doctor’s visit, you can expect to undergo a physical exam, and your physician may order additional tests, such as a biopsy or imaging tests.
Conclusion
Checking for throat cancer at home can be a proactive step in staying on top of your health. By regularly performing a self-examination, monitoring for symptoms, and seeking medical attention when needed, you can increase your chances of detecting throat cancer early. Remember to always consult with your medical professional if you have any questions or concerns about your health.