Salivary cancer, though relatively rare compared to other forms of cancer, can be a serious health concern if not detected and treated early. Arising in the salivary glands, these tumors can manifest in various ways and require prompt attention for effective management. Recognizing the symptoms, understanding the diagnostic process, and exploring early treatment options are crucial for individuals at risk.
Symptoms of Salivary Cancer
Salivary cancer can present with a range of symptoms, although it's important to note that not all cases will exhibit the same signs. Some common indicators are the following:
Swelling or a lump
A noticeable lump or swelling in the mouth, cheek, jaw, or neck could indicate salivary gland tumors. These lumps may or may not be painful.
Pain or numbness
Persistent pain or numbness in the face, mouth, or neck region can be a warning sign, especially if it doesn't subside over time.
Difficulty swallowing or speaking
As tumors grow, they may interfere with normal functions such as swallowing or speaking, leading to discomfort or difficulty in these activities.
Facial weakness or paralysis
In some cases, salivary tumors can affect facial nerves, resulting in weakness or paralysis on one side of the face.
Persistent Ear Pain
Unexplained ear pain that doesn't respond to typical treatments may indicate a tumor affecting the nearby salivary glands.
How to Diagnose Salivary Cancer
Early diagnosis is crucial for effectively managing salivary cancer. If you experience any concerning symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Diagnosis typically involves several steps:
Physical examination - A healthcare provider will perform a thorough examination of the head and neck region, checking for lumps, swelling, or other abnormalities.
Imaging tests - Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans may be used to visualize the salivary glands and identify any suspicious masses.
Biopsy - A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from the suspected tumor and examining it under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present. This is often the definitive step in diagnosing salivary cancer.
Depending on the biopsy results, additional tests may be conducted to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
Early Treatment Options
Treatment for salivary cancer depends on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, as well as the individual's overall health and preferences. Early treatment options may include:
Surgical removal of the tumor is often the primary treatment for salivary cancer, especially if the tumor is small and localized. In some cases, the entire salivary gland may need to be removed.
Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
While chemotherapy is less commonly used for salivary cancer, it may be recommended in certain cases, particularly if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
But kidney cancer is a different condition in which kidney’s cells become cancerous and grow apparently, thereby forming a tumor.When kidney cancers appear in the lining of tiny tubules of the kidney, it is called renal cell carcinoma however, treatable with Ayurvedic medications when diagnosed at the early stage.
But if you do not pay attention these tumors can grow severe and may prove life-threatening.What causes kidney cancer?Mostly, youngsters or adolescents are under the risk of kidney cancer called Wilms’ tumor but it happens in an individual older than age 40.
Doctors still are confused with the risk factors involved with kidney tumor but they are confirmed that it occurs when kidney cells receive mutation in genes.
The mutation forces the cells to grow and multiply rapidly.
These abnormal cells thereby form a tumor that can extend beyond the kidney also to some distinctive parts of the body.Several risk factors that can increase the risk of kidney cancer include:Dialysis: Those who receive long-term treatment, dialysis for kidney failure are more at the risk of having kidney cancer.Inherited conditions: People who are born with some inherited conditions may have an increased risk of kidney related tumors.
Those conditions include tuberous sclerosis complex or hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma.Obesity: If you are being overweight than you are at a higher risk of the tumor than those who are average weight.Smoking: If you smoke cigarette or take nicotine in some way than the other, then for you, the risk of kidney cancer is twice that of non inhalers.Taking excess of antibiotics: When you take much of the over the counter medications, then your kidney’s cells are more susceptible to damage.Having high blood pressure: Hypertension for a prolonged time can also make you in danger of kidney cancer.Exposure to metallic toxins: For instance, exposure to cadmium or other herbicides can increase the risk of various cancers in the body.What are the symptoms of kidney cancer?An individual may or may not have early symptoms of kidney tumors but as the tumor grows extreme, symptoms may appear in the body.
