Cancer is a devastating disease that can affect different parts of the body, including the head. Head cancer is a term used to describe tumors that develop in the head or neck area.
These tumors can be benign or malignant and can affect different parts of the head, including the brain, sinuses, mouth, throat, and neck. In this guide, we will discuss the symptoms of head cancer that you need to be aware of.
1. Headaches
Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of head cancer. If you experience persistent or severe headaches that do not respond to medication, you should consult your doctor.
Headaches caused by head cancer can occur due to the growth of the tumor in the head. The headache may start as mild and gradually get worse over time as the tumor grows.
2. Changes in Vision
Changes in vision, such as blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision, can also be signs of head cancer. The tumor can affect the nerves and muscles that control eye movement, causing problems with vision.
If you experience any changes in your vision, it is important to see an eye doctor or your primary care physician as soon as possible.
3. Ear Pain
Ear pain that does not go away can be a sign of head cancer. The tumor may affect the nerves that control the ears, causing pain and discomfort.
If you experience ear pain that does not respond to treatment, you should consult your doctor to rule out head cancer.
4. Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing can also be a sign of head cancer. The tumor can affect the throat and esophagus, making it difficult to swallow food and liquids.
If you experience difficulty swallowing that persists for more than a week, you should see your doctor for an evaluation.
5. Lump in the Neck
If you notice a lump or swelling in your neck that does not go away, it could be a sign of head cancer. The tumor can cause lymph nodes in the neck to swell, leading to a lump or mass.
If you notice any lumps or swelling in your neck, you should see your doctor for a diagnosis.
6. Changes in Voice
Changes in voice, such as hoarseness or difficulty speaking, can be a sign of head cancer. The tumor can affect the vocal cords, causing changes in voice quality.
If you experience any changes in your voice that persist for more than two weeks, you should see your doctor for an evaluation.
7. Numbness or Weakness
Numbness or weakness on one side of the face or body can be a sign of head cancer. The tumor can affect the nerves that control sensation and movement, leading to numbness or weakness.
If you experience any numbness or weakness that does not go away, you should see your doctor for an evaluation.
8. Facial Pain
Facial pain that does not go away can be a sign of head cancer. The tumor can affect the nerves that control facial sensation, leading to pain and discomfort.
If you experience any facial pain that does not respond to treatment, you should see your doctor for a diagnosis.
9. Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds that do not go away can be a sign of head cancer. The tumor can affect the blood vessels in the head, leading to frequent nosebleeds. If you experience nosebleeds that persist for more than a week, you should see your doctor for an evaluation.
10. Fatigue and Weight Loss
Fatigue and weight loss can also be signs of head cancer. The tumor can affect the body’s metabolism, leading to decreased energy levels and weight loss.
If you experience fatigue or weight loss that is unexplained, you should see your doctor for an evaluation.