Head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancers is a general term used to describe any cancer that occurs in this part of the body.  It can include:

• Mouth
• Lip
• Tongue
• Tonsil
• Thyroid
• Sinuses
• Salivary gland
• Palate
• Pharynx (the part of your throat behind your mouth and nose)

The symptoms of head and neck cancers depend on what type it is. Contact your GP practice or dentist as soon as possible, especially if you experience the following for 3 or more weeks:

• Hoarseness – your voice is never normal.
• An ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal.
• Red or white patches in the mouth that don’t go away.
• Pain when swallowing.
• A constant sore throat, especially if on one side and going towards the ear when swallowing.
• A swelling or lump in the face, mouth or neck.

Who to speak to?

If you have symptoms inside your mouth, please contact your dentist. Even if it’s between your regular check-ups, your dentist wants to see you. For anything else (or if you aren’t registered with a dentist), your GP practice wants to know.

Although these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, it’s still important to have them checked out early.

Some people put off contacting their GP practice and dentist because they think they’ll be wasting their time. But they will never think that. If you’ve noticed any symptoms and you’re at all worried about them, your GP practice and dentist want to know.

It’s always best to get checked as early as possible. You will be asked some questions about your symptoms and the healthcare professional may be able to be reassure you straight away or some more checks might be required.

They might:

• Examine the area you are concerned about.
• Ask for more information on when your symptoms started and whether anything makes them better or worse.
• Refer you to the hospital for further tests or to see a specialist.

At your routine dental appointment your dentist will also check your mouth for potential signs of oral cancer.