In today's world, where preventive healthcare is becoming increasingly important, it is crucial not to neglect the ear, nose and throat (ENT) area. ENT cancer screening is an issue that is unfortunately often overlooked, even though early examinations and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of serious illnesses. As ENT clinic in Frankfurt it is important to us to inform you about the importance of regular examinations for the prevention of cancers in the ENT area.
Various types of cancer can occur in the head and neck area, which are summarised under the term head and neck tumours. These include, among others
Various risk factors favour the development of malignant tumours in the head and neck area. These include, for example
Cigarette smoke contains Carcinogenswhich can cause cell mutations and promote tumours in the ENT area. It irritates the mucous membranes, which can lead to inflammation and cell damage. Smoking also weakens the immune system and increases the effect of other risk factors such as excessive alcohol consumption.
As a result of certain viral infections, precancerous stages can develop, which in the worst case can become cancer cells. The human papillomavirus HPV in particular is known for its ability to influence cell division and promote the growth of malignant tumours. If these precursors are not detected and treated, they can develop into malignant tumours over time. It is therefore important to recognise and treat HPV infections at an early stage in order to reduce the risk of ENT cancer.
Regular and prolonged exposure to certain substances can also increase the risk of ENT cancer. Asbestos particles, for example, can enter the respiratory tract when inhaled and lead to inflammation, scarring and ultimately cancer development. Paints and varnishes containing chromium and nickel can irritate the respiratory tract with prolonged occupational exposure and also promote cancer. PAHs, which are frequently found in tobacco smoke, exhaust fumes and industrial processes, can enter the ENT area through direct contact or inhalation and potentially cause serious cell damage.
This radiation can cause DNA damage, which can lead to mutations and uncontrolled cell growth. The sun's UV rays can directly damage the skin and mucous membranes and increase the risk of certain types of cancer, which can also manifest themselves in the ENT area. In addition, exposure to radioactive radiation, whether through occupational exposure, frequent medical radiation treatments or environmental disasters, can also lead to DNA damage. Protective measures are therefore crucial to reduce the risk of ENT cancer.
If you do not care for your mouth properly, bacteria, viruses and other harmful substances can accumulate in the mouth and throat. These can cause inflammation and damage to the oral mucosa. This is associated with an increased risk of precancerous lesions and cancer precursors.
An intact immune system plays a crucial role in fighting abnormal cells and preventing the development of cancer. If the immune system is weakened, e.g. after organ transplants or in the case of certain diseases such as HIV/AIDS, cancer cells have a greater chance of growing unhindered. In addition, viruses such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) and the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can have a greater impact on a sensitive immune system. These viral infections are associated with the development of ENT cancers such as laryngeal cancer and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Persistent inflammation and cell damage caused by chronic injury to the mucous membrane in the ENT area can promote cell growth and division. This can lead to the development of precancerous lesions and ultimately to cancer. In the mouth and throat area in particular, chronic injuries to the mucous membrane can increase the risk of cancers such as oral cavity and pharyngeal carcinomas.
Typical symptoms of head and neck tumours are pain, difficulty swallowing and, above all, persistent hoarseness. Sometimes they are also accompanied by a persistent scratchy throat and the constant urge to clear one's throat. Other symptoms include chronic coughing, difficulty swallowing, pain in the throat that radiates to the ears and breathing difficulties of unknown origin.
Tumours in the oral cavity can appear as visible swellings and, depending on their location and size, restrict the mobility of the tongue. The swellings can tend to bleed and can be both painful and painless.
At our ENT clinic in Frankfurt, we take time for you and take a close look at your symptoms and any family history.
We offer you a detailed ENT medical examination with a special focus on head and neck tumours. Here we use special Endoscopeswith which we can examine your ENT area in particular detail. Ultrasound diagnostics are also used to examine the soft tissues in your neck. In addition to the thyroid gland, we can also examine your lymph nodes in more detail. If necessary, we will initiate further diagnostic measures for you.
We will be happy to advise you on a healthy lifestyle to minimise the risk of developing head and neck tumours.
Talk to us! We are happy to offer you the screening examination for head and neck tumours as a self-pay service according to GOÄ.
If recognised early, many laryngeal diseases can be treated much more effectively. This makes it all the more important to correctly interpret warning signs and seek medical advice in good time. In the following, we focus on laryngeal carcinoma and its symptoms.
A blocked nose, persistent nosebleeds or a change in breathing - these symptoms are usually due to a relatively harmless cause. However, sometimes benign or malignant tumours can also be the cause. In these cases, early diagnosis is crucial for the further course of the disease.
ENT screening may not be as prominent in your life as other medical specialities, but it plays a crucial role for your body. After all, potentially life-threatening diseases such as cancer can also occur in this region of the body. We offer the various examinations at our ENT practice clinic in Frankfurt.
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