Cancer of the larynx

Larynx is often called the voice box and is a complex structure of bone, cartilage and soft tissue located above the windpipe. I will not go into details but it is important to note that the vocal cords are located here and when air is exhaled against them, they vibrate and create sounds. Since the vocal cords in men are usually thicker and longer than those in women, they vibrate more slowly creating a lower pitch or deeper sounding voice.

Almost all those who develop cancer of the larynx are heavy drinkers and tobacco users. The most frequent sign of cancer of the larynx is persistent and worsening hoarseness.

I would like to make it clear that teachers, radio announcers and politicians who use their voice a lot and experience this, but with proper medication and rest of their voice, normalcy returns.

With cancer of the larynx, the tumor inhibits the vibration and movement of the vocal cords and as the disease becomes worse, the patient also develops chronic cough. A change of voice pitch, throat discomfort, a lump in the throat, difficulty or pain in breathing or swallowing and earache.

For proper examination, always consult an E.N.T. specialist since they have the knowledge and proper instruments to properly evaluate your case. When in doubt, x-ray, CT scan or MRI may be employed before a biopsy is decided on.

As far as treatment is concerned, surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be given even as a combination therapy. Cancer of the larynx has a high cure rate if detected early and given the proper treatment as soon as possible.

 Unfortunately, the survival rate lowers if the cancer is already at its advanced stage. A major goal of the health care team and of the patients themselves is to return to a lifestyle as close to normal as possible. Those who have undergone surgery and are left with open tubes in their neck, jobs or activities which involve extreme heat or cold or gases, fumes or dusts must be avoided. Swimming is also prohibited because water could flow into the lungs.

Patients whose larynx was surgically removed must be taught how to speak using their esophagus. Hope for the future lies in early detection and prevention. Cancer researchers are developing more effective combinations of treatments.

Individuals can help themselves by avoiding all forms of tobacco use and by drinking only in moderation. The movement toward generally healthier lifestyles could help prevent most cases of cancer of the larynx.