Head and Neck Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and the Role of Speech Therapy
- Rebecca Kruise
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating and increasing awareness about these cancers, which account for about 4% of all cancers in the United States. In this blog, we’ll cover the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of head and neck cancers and the crucial role speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play in the rehabilitation process.
What is Head and Neck Cancer?
Head and neck cancers can develop in various areas, including the following:
Oral cavity (lips, gums, tongue, roof and floor of the mouth, cheeks)
Pharynx (throat)
Larynx (voice box)
Paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity
Salivary glands
Most of these cancers begin as squamous cell carcinomas or within the salivary glands. Squamous cell carcinomas are a type of cancer originating in the squamous cells, which are flat, thin cells found on the skin's surface and in the linings of various organs, including the mouth, throat, and respiratory tract. These cancers often develop in areas exposed to irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, or human papillomavirus (HPV) and can spread if not detected early.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Some common symptoms of head and neck cancer include:
Lumps in the neck
Sores in the mouth or throat that do not heal
A persistent sore throat
Difficulty swallowing
Unexplained voice changes
Unintentional weight loss
Self-Exam Guide for Early Detection
Regular self-examinations can help with early identification. Here’s what to look for:
Check for lumps in the neck
Examine your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth for any red or white patches or bumps. If these persist for over two weeks and continue growing, consult a doctor or dentist.
Diagnosis: What to Expect
If an abnormality is detected, the patient is often referred for further testing, which may include:
CT scans – A computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It helps doctors identify tumors, determine their size, and assess if cancer has spread to nearby structures.
MRIs – A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of soft tissues. This is particularly useful for evaluating tumors in the head and neck area and determining their impact on surrounding nerves and muscles.
PET scans – A positron emission tomography (PET) scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive sugar into the body. Cancer cells absorb more of this substance than normal cells, allowing doctors to detect cancerous areas and assess whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment Options
The treatment of head and neck cancer depends on several factors, including the tumor’s location, stage, and the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:
Surgery to remove the tumor
Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells
Chemotherapy to target cancer throughout the body
The Role of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in Rehabilitation
Treatment for head and neck cancer, especially surgery and radiation, can significantly impact speech, swallowing, and breathing. SLPs play a vital role in rehabilitation, helping patients regain function through:
Dysarthria intervention to improve articulation and speech intelligibility
Respiratory muscle training is needed to strengthen respiratory muscles and maximize speaking and swallowing.
Vocal exercises to improve voice loudness and clarity
Implementing AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) devices for individuals with severe speech impairments
Cognitive-communication therapy to treat deficits in attention, memory, and executive functioning
Swallowing therapy to improve swallow safety and function through swallow exercises, compensatory strategies, and diet modifications
Head and neck cancer can be a life-altering diagnosis, but early detection and treatment can increase survival rates and reduce the severity of treatment required. If you notice any persistent symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation. SLPs are essential in the recovery journey, helping individuals regain their ability to speak, swallow, and communicate effectively. Spreading awareness and promoting early screening can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected.
If you or a loved one are navigating head and neck cancer, reach out to a speech-language pathologist to explore the support and therapy options available.
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