The common early throat cancer signs are chronic blockage of the nose and/or eustachian tubes to the ears, and pain in the ears.

These throat tumor symptoms may be confused with those of a general throat infection or cold. The Epstein-Barr virus has been shown to play a role in the development of some throat cancer cases.

Diets rich in salted fish, and low in vitamins has been shown to be a risk factor in developing throat cancer.  Of course smoking tobacco products is a major cause of throat cancer as well.

The cancer is one of the most common in Asia but is relatively rare in North America.

Throat tumor signs:

• chronic blockage of nose
• chronic blockage of eustachian tubes
• congestion and pain of the ears
• hearing difficulties
• discharge of pus and blood from the nose
• paralysis of region of the face

Diagnosis is typically performed through imaging techniques (MRI and CT scan) and tissue biopsy.

Throat cancer treatment is generally by chemotherapy and radiation therapy and occasionally surgery.