What is Vocal Cord Cancer?
Vocal cord cancer is a malignant cell growth in the vocal cords. This condition is often used interchangeably with the term laryngeal cancer. In fact, the two terms can refer to the same disease, as the vocal cords are part of the larynx. The larynx is part of the respiratory tract and plays a critical role in both breathing and voice production.
How Does Vocal Cord Cancer Occur?
The vocal cords act like a door at the entrance to the windpipe and guide the air that reaches the lungs when breathing in and out. If the inhaled air contains harmful substances such as cigarette smoke, polluted air or toxic gases, these substances can accumulate in the vocal cords over time and cause changes in the structure of the cells. These changes can result in the uncontrolled growth of cells, setting the stage for cancer.
What are the Symptoms of Vocal Cord Cancer?
Early detection is critical for successful treatment of vocal cord cancer. Here are the symptoms to look out for:
- Prolonged hoarseness: More than 3 weeks of hoarseness is one of the earliest and most common symptoms.
- Shortness of breath As the disease progresses, breathing may become difficult due to narrowing of the airways.
- Swallowing Difficulty: It occurs because the structures near the vocal cords are affected.
- Blood in Sputum Blood with coughing is an alarming symptom.
- Speech Impairment: Progressive deterioration in voice quality and difficulty speaking clearly.
If you smoke and you have one or more of these symptoms, you should urgently consult an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist.
Risk Factors Leading to Vocal Cord Cancer
- Smoking and Tobacco Products: Smoking is the biggest risk factor for vocal cord cancer. Inhaling nicotine or harmful gases through inhalation, including electronic cigarettes, increases this risk.
- Exposure to Harmful Gases: People exposed to toxic gases or chemicals at work are at increased risk.
- Hot Drinks: Although consumption of very hot tea and coffee has not been directly linked to vocal cord cancer, it may increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
- Reflux: Although there is no direct evidence, chronic reflux can cause irritation of the vocal cords.
How is Vocal Cord Cancer Diagnosed?
For early diagnosis, a detailed evaluation of vocal cord cancer is performed. The following methods are used for diagnosis:
- Laryngoscopy: Examination of the vocal cords with a camera.
- Biopsy: A sample of suspicious tissues is taken for pathologic examination.
- Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans to assess the spread of cancer.
Treatment Options in Vocal Cord Cancer
Vocal cord cancer is an easy disease to treat when detected early. Treatment methods used include the following:
- Laser Surgery: In the early stages, cancerous tissues can be removed by laser without making an incision in the mouth. This method is effective in preserving voice quality.
- Radiation Therapy (Radiotherapy): It can be used alone or in combination with laser in the early stages.
- Open Surgery: In advanced cases, open surgery may be needed to remove cancerous tissues.
Voice prostheses and vocal cord implants can be used to improve voice quality after cancer treatment.
What to Do to Prevent Vocal Cord Cancer?
The following measures can be taken to reduce the risk of vocal cord cancer:
- Stop Smoking and Vaping: Nicotine and harmful gases cause great damage to the vocal cords.
- Limit Exposure to Hazardous Substances: If you work with chemicals in the workplace, use protective equipment.
- Take Care of Your Voice Health: When you notice symptoms such as hoarseness lasting more than 3 weeks, consult an ENT specialist immediately.
Conclusion
Vocal cord cancer is a treatable disease when diagnosed early. Symptoms such as hoarseness, especially in smokers, should be taken into consideration and regular checks should not be neglected. Remember, your voice is your identity. Take care of your health to protect your voice and do not ignore the symptoms. If you or someone close to you is experiencing hoarseness lasting longer than 3 weeks, contact a specialist as soon as possible.