Everything You Need to Know About Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Nasopharyngeal cancer is a type of cancer that grows in the area behind your nose and your throat’s upper part. The term nasopharyngeal comes from the “nasopharynx,” which is part of your body this cancer affects. The nasopharynx is placed on the base of your skull and is right behind your nostrils. Our nostrils are connected with the nasopharynx, and the air we breathe goes through it before it reaches our lungs.
Most cases of nasopharyngeal cancer are found in Southeast Asian countries. This cancer has affected China the most as there are 10 to 150 cases per 100,000 people every year. Nasopharyngeal cancer is also becoming common in North Africa, Canada, and the USA.
In this article, I have mentioned the symptoms, causes, and treatments for nasopharyngeal cancer that will help you understand this disease better. Let’s take a look:
Causes of Nasopharyngeal Cancer
When it comes to the causes of nasopharyngeal cancer, scientists are not really sure what causes it. A link has been created between nasopharyngeal cancer and EBV, but there is no conclusive evidence that it is the disease’s main cause.
People who have Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are more likely to get nasopharyngeal cancer. However, having EBV doesn’t necessarily mean that you will get cancer. Most people who have EBV don’t get nasopharyngeal cancer or suffer any side effects.
Even though scientists are still studying the relationship between EBV and nasopharyngeal cancer, it is speculated that EBV triggers cancer in certain people because of their DNA. The virus can affect the DNA and can cause it to behave abnormally.
If you have EBV and are feeling uneasiness in your nasopharynx, you can visit Take2Health for a noninvasive nasopharyngeal cancer diagnosis.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer include:
● Ear infections
● Numb Face
● Lump in neck
● Loss of hearing or ringing in the ears
● Sore throats
● Nosebleeds
● Difficulty in moving the jaw properly
A lot of these symptoms can also be caused by a small disease or temporary infection, which is why most people don’t pay attention to them. It is advised that you consult your doctor if you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms.
Treatments
If you are diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer, your treatment will depend on several things, including your age, health condition, location of cancer, and the current stage of cancer. People who suffer from nasopharyngeal cancer goes through the following treatments:
● Radio Therapy
Radiotherapy is one of the most common cancer treatments, and it kills cancer cells with x-ray radiation. The therapy is done with special apparatuses and in a controlled environment. The rays are bombarded on cancer affected areas in a way that I don’t damage the surrounding areas of your body.
● Surgery
Nasopharyngeal cancer can also be removed via surgery. However, most people are advised against it due to the tumor’s sensitive location and the side effects it can cause.
● Biological Drugs
These drugs are used to change how your body fights against the disease and helps you battle cancer.
Apart from these treatments, you might also be suggested Palliative trials, chemotherapy, or clinical trials.
