Overview

Head and Neck Cancer refers to a group of cancers that arise in the mouth, nose, throat, sinuses, or voice box. These cancers are often linked to tobacco and alcohol use, as well as viral infections like HPV. Early signs may include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or lumps in the neck.

At Sarvodaya Cancer Institute, we provide advanced head and neck cancer treatment in Faridabad with a multidisciplinary approach. Our expertise includes robotic-assisted surgeries, radiation, and targeted therapies, ensuring precise tumour removal and faster recovery for better patient outcomes.

Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
• A lump or sore that does not heal (especially in the mouth, throat, or neck)
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent pain while swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Swelling or a mass in the jaw, neck, or face
• Change in voice or speech
• Ear pain or ringing in the ears (especially if one-sided)
• Bleeding in the mouth or nose
• Difficulty breathing or nasal obstruction
• Numbness or weakness in parts of the face
  
  
  

Causes of Head and Neck Cancer

• Tobacco use (smoking and smokeless forms)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
• Poor oral hygiene and dental issues
• Prolonged exposure to sunlight
• Exposure to industrial chemicals or asbestos
• Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection
• Family history of head and neck cancer
• Low intake of fruits and vegetables
• Poor immunity or history of chronic infections
  

Diagnosis of Head and Neck Cancer

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for planning effective treatment. At Sarvodaya, our expert oncologists use a combination of clinical evaluation and advanced diagnostic tools to identify cancer type, stage, and spread. This multi-modal approach is central to personalised head and neck cancer treatment in Faridabad, led by our head and neck Oncologist in Faridabad.

• Physical Examination – Initial screening to detect lumps, lesions, or abnormalities in the mouth, throat, neck, or jaw.

• Endoscopy – A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted to view deeper areas like the nasal cavity, larynx, or pharynx.

• Imaging Tests – 3T MRI, CT scan, PET scan, and X-rays help assess the tumour’s size, extent, and possible metastasis.

• Biopsy – A small tissue sample is extracted and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence and type of cancer.

• HPV and EBV Testing – Tests detect specific viruses linked to oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal cancers, guiding treatment decisions.

• Blood Tests – Assess general health, organ function, and readiness for chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.

Treatment for Head & Neck Cancer

• Accurate Diagnosis & Staging: Using high-end imaging technologies like CT, MRI, PET scans, and endoscopic biopsies, Sarvodaya ensures timely and accurate diagnosis, enabling personalised head and neck cancer treatment in Faridabad.

• Robotic-Assisted Head & Neck Cancer Surgery: Sarvodaya’s Robotic Institute enables scarless, minimally invasive tumour removal from difficult-to-reach areas like the throat, larynx, or base of the tongue. Our advanced robotic system ensures high precision, minimal tissue damage, faster recovery, and superior functional and cosmetic outcomes.

• Conventional Surgical Oncology: For certain cases, open surgery may be used to remove tumours in the oral cavity, pharynx, or neck. Our surgeons aim to preserve speech, swallowing, and appearance wherever possible.

• Radiation Therapy: Often used post-surgery or as a primary treatment, advanced radiation techniques like IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) are used to target tumours precisely while sparing healthy tissue.

• Chemotherapy & Immunotherapy: Depending on the cancer stage and spread, chemotherapy or targeted drugs are used alone or alongside other treatments to shrink tumours, stop recurrence, and boost immune response.

• Rehabilitation & Support: Speech therapy, physiotherapy, nutritional support, and counselling are integral to recovery. Our holistic rehab plans help patients regain confidence and quality of life post-treatment.
  
  

Prevention & Lifestyle Modification

Adopting healthy lifestyle practices can significantly reduce the risk of developing head and neck cancers. At Sarvodaya, we also emphasise patient education and preventive counselling as part of comprehensive care, guided by our head and neck cancer specialist.

• Avoid Tobacco Use – Refrain from smoking and chewing tobacco, which are among the leading causes of head and neck cancers.

• Limit Alcohol Consumption – Excessive alcohol intake increases risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.

• Practice Safe Sex – Use protection and consider HPV vaccination to reduce the risk of virus-induced cancers.

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene – Regular dental care and hygiene can help detect precancerous changes early.

• Healthy Diet & Hydration – Include fruits, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods to support immune function and cell repair.

• Regular Screening – Recommended for high-risk individuals such as tobacco/alcohol users or those with a family history.

• Avoid Exposure to Carcinogens – Limit contact with industrial chemicals, pollutants, or occupational irritants known to increase cancer risk.

Pre- & Post-Surgery Modifications

Before Treatment:

• Nutrition Planning – Follow a protein-rich, easy-to-swallow diet to maintain strength during therapy.

• Quit Smoking & Alcohol – Crucial to avoid complications and support treatment effectiveness.

• Dental Evaluation – A dental check is necessary before radiation to prevent oral issues.

• Speech & Swallowing Assessment – Conducted by experts to plan post-treatment rehabilitation.

• Emotional Preparation – Join support groups or counselling to reduce fear and anxiety.
  
  

After Treatment:

• Swallowing Exercises – Specialised therapy helps recover speech and swallowing functions.

• Soft Diet Transition – Start with soft, non-irritating foods to promote healing.

• Hydration & Oral Care – Maintain good oral hygiene and stay hydrated to avoid infections.

• Regular Follow-ups – Essential for monitoring recovery, recurrence, and managing side effects.

• Rehabilitation Support – May include physiotherapy, speech therapy, or reconstructive support.