Symptoms and Complications
The symptoms of laryngeal cancer depend on where in the larynx the tumor
is located. Cancer on the vocal cords can often be detected early because
the main symptom is hoarseness. Most people go hoarse from time to time, but
if the hoarseness doesn't go away in two weeks, it should be checked.
Symptoms that the cancer has spread or is occurring in another part of the
larynx include:
- a cough that doesn't go away
- persistent sore throat
- breathing difficulties, feeling that something is catching in the throat
- ear pain (pain from deep in the throat can be felt in the ear)
- a lump or mass in the neck or throat
- coughing up of blood
There are a few complications that can result from laryngeal cancer.
Airway obstruction: Any tumor or swelling in the airway can cause a
blockage, making breathing difficult. If treatment involves total removal of
the larynx, a tracheostomy (surgery to create an artificial airway in
the trachea) is then performed to improve breathing.
Disfigurement: Removing the tumor and surrounding tissue could leave
some disfigurement of the throat and neck. Muscles might be removed as well,
making neck movement more difficult. If a tracheostomy was performed, the stoma
(opening in the throat) is usually permanent.
Difficulty eating: After surgery, it may become difficult to swallow certain consistencies of food. Those undergoing radiotherapy may
have trouble swallowing or even chewing. Chemotherapy can cause nausea and vomiting.
A good, healthy diet is vital when recuperating from cancer, so it's important
that adequate nutrition be maintained throughout the treatment.
Cancer spread: It's possible that the cancer may spread to other areas of the body.
Voice loss: Treatment that involves removing the entire larynx makes
normal speech impossible. In this case, alternate methods of speaking need to
be learned. These are:
- esophageal speech: This is the most basic form of alternate
speech, which is done by swallowing air and creating sound by expelling
it.
- tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP): A small one-way valve is
placed between the trachea and esophagus. By taking in air through their stoma
into the lungs, then covering their stoma (from the tracheostomy), sounds
can be made through the mouth.
- electrolarynx: When you hold this electronic device next to
the skin of the throat or the corner of the mouth it produces a mechanical
voice. Muscle movements stimulate the machine to make sounds.
While these new methods of speech are being learned, other ways of communicating
will be needed. This might mean keeping a "magic slate" or pad and
pencils easily available. It's important to plan ahead to help avoid frustration
after surgery.