What are the symptoms of having a tumor in the throat?

Dec 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lu Cheng

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the throat refers to the pharynx. Tumors in the pharynx may cause symptoms such as hoarseness, throat pain, difficulty swallowing, coughing, or hemoptysis (coughing up blood), and difficulty breathing. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, you should maintain good oral hygiene, avoid excessive use of the voice, refrain from consuming irritating foods, closely monitor breathing and swallowing, and strictly follow medical advice for regular follow-up examinations.

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. Tumors in the throat may cause symptoms such as hoarseness, throat pain, difficulty swallowing, coughing, or hemoptysis (coughing up blood), and difficulty breathing. If experiencing any discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Hoarseness

When a throat tumor involves the vocal cords or surrounding tissues, it can affect the normal vibration and closure function of the vocal cords. For example, a tumor on the surface of the vocal cords may prevent the vocal cords from fully closing during phonation or alter the frequency and amplitude of vocal cord vibration, resulting in hoarseness.

2. Throat Pain

Tumor tissue growing in the throat can invade surrounding normal tissues, such as mucous membranes and muscles. This invasion can trigger an inflammatory response, stimulating nerve endings and causing pain. The severity of pain varies among individuals and may range from mild dull ache to severe stabbing pain.

3. Difficulty Swallowing

The growth of throat tumors may obstruct or partially block the passage of the throat. When a tumor occupies the entrance of the esophagus or distorts the structure of the throat, the process of food passing through the throat into the esophagus becomes hindered. Patients may feel that food is stuck in the throat and difficult to swallow.

4. Coughing or Hemoptysis

Irritation of the throat mucosa by the tumor can trigger a cough reflex. If blood vessels on the tumor surface rupture, hemoptysis may occur. This may manifest as blood-streaked sputum or small amounts of fresh blood being coughed up.

5. Difficulty Breathing

When a throat tumor grows to a certain size, it can block the airway, restricting airflow into and out of the lungs. For example, the tumor may compress the trachea or narrow the airway in the larynx, causing airflow obstruction during respiration. Patients may experience shortness of breath or dyspnea, especially during physical activity or when lying flat, where symptoms may become more pronounced.

It is important to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid excessive voice use, refrain from consuming irritating foods, closely monitor breathing and swallowing, and strictly follow medical advice for regular follow-up examinations.

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What causes sore throat and bad breath?

Sore throat and bad breath may be caused by dietary irritation, inadequate oral hygiene, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis, periodontitis, etc. These can be improved through dietary adjustments, enhanced hygiene, and medication. Long-term consumption of spicy, hot foods or alcohol can irritate the throat. If symptoms persist or worsen, or are accompanied by fever or difficulty swallowing, prompt medical attention is necessary.

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What symptoms are associated with yellow phlegm from coughing?

Cough with yellow sputum generally indicates bacterial respiratory infection, lung heat syndrome, bronchitis, pneumonia, or postnasal drip caused by sinusitis. Bacterial invasion of the respiratory mucosa triggers an inflammatory response, leading to increased mucus secretion that turns yellow. In addition to yellow sputum, symptoms often include worsening cough and sore throat; some individuals may also develop fever. The more severe the inflammation, the darker the sputum color may become.