Throat Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms of throat cancer vary from person to person. Early signs of throat cancer may include:

• Hoarseness or other change in the voice
• Difficulty swallowing or the feeling that something is caught in the throat
• Persistent sore throat
• Ear pain
• Lump in the neck
• Cough
• Breathing problems
• Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms do not always mean you have throat cancer. However, it is important to discuss them with your doctor, since they may signal other health problems.

Behavioral and lifestyle changes can help prevent throat cancer. Visit our prevention and screening section to learn how to manage your risk.

In rare cases, throat cancer can be passed down from one generation to the next. Genetic counseling may be right for you. Visit our genetic testing page to learn more.