Larynx cancer is a type of cancer that affects the voice box, or the vocal cords. The larynx is responsible for producing sound, and when cancer strikes, it can impact a person’s ability to speak.

While the exact cause of larynx cancer is not known, there are a number of risk factors that can increase a person’s chances of developing this disease. If you are experiencing any of the warning signs listed below, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine if you might be at risk for larynx cancer.

1. Persistent Hoarseness or Change in Voice

If you have had a hoarse voice for more than two weeks, and it is not improving, you should see your doctor. Persistent hoarseness or a change in your voice could be an early sign of larynx cancer.

2. Difficulty Swallowing or Sensation of a Lump in the Throat

If you are experiencing difficulty swallowing, this could be a sign of larynx cancer. You may also feel like there is a lump or something stuck in your throat.

These symptoms can be caused by a number of conditions, but it is important to tell your doctor about them so that he or she can rule out cancer.

3. Persistent Coughing or Throat Clearing

If you have a cough that lasts for more than two weeks or find yourself constantly clearing your throat, this could be a sign of larynx cancer.

These symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, but it is important to discuss them with your doctor to determine the cause.

4. Ear Pain or Unexplained Ear Infections

Larynx cancer can sometimes cause pain in the ears or unexplained ear infections. If you are experiencing these symptoms, speak with your doctor so that he or she can evaluate you for larynx cancer as well as other potential causes.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue

If you are losing weight without trying or feel very tired all the time, this could be a sign of larynx cancer.

While these symptoms can be caused by a number of conditions, it is important to tell your doctor about them so that he or she can evaluate you for cancer.

6. Persistent Sore Throat or Pain in the Neck or Throat

If you have a sore throat that lasts for more than two weeks or experience pain in your neck or throat, this could be an early sign of larynx cancer.

These symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, but it is important to tell your doctor about them so that he or she can evaluate you for cancer.

7. Past or Current Tobacco Use

Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of larynx cancer. If you are currently using tobacco products, your risk of developing larynx cancer is significantly higher than someone who does not use tobacco.

If you have a history of tobacco use, it is important to be aware of the signs of larynx cancer, as you are at a higher risk for developing this disease.

8. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption is another leading cause of larynx cancer. If you drink alcohol regularly and in large amounts, you are at a higher risk for developing this disease.

If you have a history of alcohol abuse, it is important to be aware of the signs of larynx cancer and to speak with your doctor if you experience any of them.

9. Exposure to Asbestos or Other Hazardous Materials

Exposure to asbestos and other hazardous materials can increase a person’s risk of developing larynx cancer.

If you have been exposed to these materials in the past, it is important to tell your doctor, as he or she can evaluate you for cancer and other conditions associated with this type of exposure.

10. Prior Radiation Treatment to the Head or Neck Area

If you have received radiation treatments to the head or neck area in the past, you are at a higher risk for developing larynx cancer. It is important to be aware of the signs of this disease and to speak with your doctor if you experience any of them.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing any of the warning signs listed above, it is important to see your doctor to determine if you might be at risk for larynx cancer.

While many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, it is important to rule out cancer as a potential cause. By being aware of these warning signs and discussing any concerns with your doctor, you can take steps to catch larynx cancer early and ensure that you receive the best possible treatment.