Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancers are often found because of the problems they cause. Finding this type of cancer without symptoms is rare.
Nasal cavity cancer begins in the opening behind the nose while paranasal sinus cancer starts in the air-filled spaces in the skull around or near the nose. The nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses do many things:
· They help filter, warm, and moisten the air you breathe
· The give your voice resonance
· They lighten the weight of your skull
· They provide a bony framework for the face and eyes
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of nose and sinus cancers (typically only on one side) include:
· Nasal congestion and stuffiness that doesn’t get better or worsens
· Blockage on one side of the nose
· Nosebleeds
· Pus draining from the nose
· A lump or mass on the face, top of the mouth, or inside the nose
· Loosening or numbness of teeth
· Pain above or below the eyes
· Post-nasal drip (drainage in the back of the nose and throat)
· Problems with your sense of smell
· Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
· Headache
· Hearing loss
· Bulging of one eye
· Constant watery eyes
· Trouble opening your mouth
· Pain or pressure in one of your ears
· Loss or change in vision
Experiencing one or more of these symptoms doesn’t mean you have nose or sinus cancer. Many of these symptoms are often caused by other conditions such as allergies or a sinus infection. If you have any of these symptoms, it is still important to have them checked out by a doctor to find the cause and determine treatment. If the treatment (such as an antibiotic) doesn’t work, be sure to tell your doctor for more testing.
While there is no way to prevent these types of cancers, there are a few things you can do to lower your risk — avoid chemicals and dust in the workplace and stop smoking.
Surgery is a common treatment option for nose and sinus cancer depending on the stage of cancer and your general health. Sometimes treatment options can be combined such as surgery along with chemotherapy. Usually, surgery is the first treatment for nose and sinus cancer.
At Ohio Head and Neck Surgeons, we understand your concerns when seeking diagnosis and treatment options for Ear, Nose, and Throat injuries and diseases. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our quality ENT specialists. For more information on scheduling click here.
To prepare for your first appointment, you can also visit our New Patients page to find important forms you will need at your appointment including registration and health history.
