Oropharyngeal cancer is a rare disease with severe consequences and normally involves patients aged between 50 and 80. Being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV), smoking and excessive abuse of alcohol are the biggest risk causes of oropharyngeal cancer. The studies showed that men are affected three to five times more frequently than women.Our dentists in Dubai can offer proper information regarding this disease and will provide counseling and treatment plans for every patient with oropharyngeal cancer signs. You can also receive dental implants in Dubai.
Oropharyngeal cancer symptoms
Oropharyngeal cancer signs include a lump in the neck and also painful throat. These and other symptoms may be produced by oropharyngeal cancer or by other disorders. It is necessary to visit our Dubai dentist if you have any of the following signs:
• an inflammation in the back of the mouth, throat or even neck;
• a persistent sore throat;
• a change in voice and speech;
• weight loss;
• cough;
• a dense pain behind the breastbone;
• trouble swallowing;
• pain or bleeding in the mouth;
• loosening of teeth or toothaches;
• bad breath.
Having these symptoms does not certainly mean the patient has oropharyngeal cancer, but it is necessary to see our dentist in Dubai, particularly if these kinds of signs have continued for longer than a few weeks.
Here is a video about the symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer and the dental treatments offered by our Dubai dentists in order to prevent such illness:
What causes oropharyngeal cancer?
This kind of illness is in most times linked to the HPV or the human papilloma virus which usually spread through skin contact. Even though the human body is built to fight such virus with the help of the immune system and in many cases the disease come and go without affecting the person, there are situations in which HPV installs and develops oropharyngeal cancer. It takes about several months or even years until the cells start to change and turn into cancer, which is why it is mandatory to see your dentist from time to time and have some blood analysis at least twice per year.
An inappropriate diet is also linked to the development of oropharyngeal cancer if the body cannot receive the needed vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables. At the time of investigation in a special facility, the doctor will ask questions about the symptoms you have detected recently and about the daily food habits. The next step is to examine the throat with a light, a small mirror, and a tube camera the back of the throat. Depending on the stage of the illness, the treatments will be in accordance, whether you show the first signs of oropharyngeal cancer or the advanced stages.
Types of oropharyngeal cancer
Most cases of oropharyngeal cancer appear in squamous cells, the flat and thin cells that create the lining inside the oropharynx. In addition to squamous cell oropharyngeal cancer, other types contain:
• lymphoepitheliomas,
• minor salivary gland tumors,
• lymphomas.
If cancer is identified, relieving symptoms remains a vital part of cancer care and also treatment. This is also known as symptom management, supportive care or palliative care and the patients need to talk about their healthcare with our doctors in Dubai. Making regular screenings is essential for detecting cancers of the oral cavity and oropharynx in time when they have a much better chance of being treated.
People who want specialized treatments for tooth repair may be interested in dental implants in Dubai. Such treatments are recommended for patients who are missing teeth and who want to regain the essential functions of the teeth. The procedures involved are performed under local anesthesia, and where necessary, patients will have to present their medical history and some specific analyses.
For any other questions or information about oropharyngeal cancer, please don’t hesitate tocontact our dental clinics in Dubai.