Throat Cancer: Don't Ignore These Early Warning Signs – Voice Changes, Ear Pain, and More. OR Is It More Than a Sore Throat? Key Signs of Possible Throat Cancer.

Throat cancer is a serious condition that develops in the tissues of the throat, including the pharynx, larynx, and nearby structures. Although less common than some other cancers, it can be life-threatening if not detected at an early stage. The challenge with throat cancer is that its symptoms often resemble those of everyday health problems such as colds, infections, or acid reflux, making them easy to overlook. Recognising the signs of throat cancer, such as persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing, is crucial for early diagnosis, effective treatment, and improving long-term outcomes.According to a study published in The British Journal of General Practice, hoarseness and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) emerged as two of the most common early symptoms of throat cancer. The study found that hoarseness was present in over 50% of patients, while dysphagia affected around 40%, underscoring the importance of paying attention to these subtle yet significant warning signs for timely diagnosis.Other symptoms of throat cancer are:1. Persistent voice changesVoice changes are among the most noticeable symptoms of throat cancer, particularly when it affects the larynx (voice box). Hoarseness that lasts more than two to three weeks should always be taken seriously, especially if there is no improvement with rest or medication. Over time, the voice may become increasingly weak, strained, or rough. In advanced cases, some people may lose their voice altogether. Since voice problems are often dismissed as minor issues like colds or overuse, persistent changes should always be checked by a healthcare professional.2. Difficulty swallowing (Dysphagia)Trouble swallowing is a common red flag for throat cancer. It often begins subtly, with a feeling that food gets stuck in the throat or chest, and progresses to pain while swallowing. Initially, the difficulty may only affect solid foods, but as the cancer advances, even liquids can become hard to swallow. This can lead to choking episodes, fear of eating, and unintended weight loss. Dysphagia is not exclusive to cancer but should always be evaluated if it persists.3. Sore throats that do not healUnlike common infections, a sore throat caused by throat cancer lingers and often worsens over time. The discomfort may intensify when speaking, eating, or swallowing. In some cases, the pain may be one-sided, affecting only part of the throat. A persistent sore throat that does not respond to antibiotics, lozenges, or other typical treatments should be investigated, particularly if it continues for several weeks.4. Ear pain and neck lumpsEarache without any ear infection can sometimes signal throat cancer. This happens when the tumour irritates nearby nerves, causing referred pain in the ear. Another warning sign is the presence of lumps or swelling in the neck, usually due to cancer spreading to the lymph nodes. These lumps are typically firm, painless, and gradually enlarge, unlike swollen glands from an infection which usually shrink once the infection clears. Persistent ear pain or neck masses should be promptly assessed.5. Breathing and coughing problemsAs throat cancer progresses, tumours can obstruct the airway, leading to noisy or laboured breathing. Some people develop a chronic cough that does not resolve, while others may cough up blood or notice a wheezing sound (stridor). These symptoms can cause significant discomfort, disrupt sleep, and impact daily activities. Any persistent cough or breathing issue lasting more than a few weeks warrants medical attention, particularly when accompanied by other throat cancer symptoms.6. Unexplained weight loss and fatigueSudden, unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of many cancers, including throat cancer. The body uses more energy to fight the disease, leading to rapid loss of weight and muscle mass. This can be compounded by difficulty eating due to pain or swallowing problems. Fatigue is another frequent issue, often described as an overwhelming tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest. Persistent weight loss or extreme fatigue without an obvious cause should never be ignored.7. Persistent bad breath (Halitosis)Another symptom sometimes overlooked is chronic bad breath. Tumours in the throat can cause tissue breakdown, infections, and poor oral hygiene due to difficulty swallowing, all of which contribute to strong, unpleasant odours. Unlike temporary bad breath from food or poor dental care, cancer-related halitosis does not improve with brushing or mouthwash.8. Changes in speech and resonanceBeyond hoarseness, throat cancer can alter how a person speaks. Tumours affecting the vocal cords, pharynx, or surrounding tissues may cause slurred speech, changes in resonance, or a nasal tone. These changes often progress gradually and may be noticed first by family or friends before the individual realises something is wrong.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine or treatment.Also read | Atherosclerosis early signs in young adults linked to diabetes and obesity