Nose cancer (nasopharyngeal cancer) symptoms include frequent nosebleeds and sore throat. Clin Asst Prof Terence Tan, Senior Consultant, Division of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) shares more signs and symptoms.
Nose cancer: What is it?
Nose cancer, or nasopharyngeal cancer, occurs when the cells lining the nasopharynx – the area behind the nose and just above the back of the throat – become cancerous,” explain
Clinical Assistant Professor Terence Tan, Senior Consultant from the
Division of Radiation Oncology at National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), a member of the
SingHealth group. Generally, nose cancer affects men more than women, and typically occurs between the ages of 35 and 55. If you have a family member with nose cancer, you may be genetically predisposed to it.
Nose cancer signs & symptoms
If you exhibit any of the following signs and symptoms, you should consult a doctor to rule out nose cancer.
One or more painless lumps in the nose or on the neck
Nasal obstruction or stuffiness
Frequent nosebleeds
Blood-stained sputum (phlegm)
Hearing problems, such as a change or loss in hearing, ringing in the ear
Difficulty breathing or speaking or swallowing
Ear ache or ear discharge
Frequent headaches
Blurred or double vision
A sore throat that does not go away
Hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing
Fatigue
Weight loss for unknown reason
A painless lump in the neck most common symptom of nose cancer
In 75 per cent of newly diagnosed nose cancer cases, there is a painless lump in the neck. Do note that some of the signs and symptoms listed above may be caused by a number of problems and may not indicate the presence of cancer. However, if any of these symptoms persists or bothers you, please consult your doctor, who will be able to assess if these signs and symptoms actually mean nose cancer.
Read on to know more about
nose cancer risk factors.
Ref: K21
