Nasopharyngeal cancer symptoms easily mistaken for common throat, sinus issues

Symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer, often called "the cancer that hides," can be easily confused with more common ailments such as a sore throat, sinusitis, or even a common cold, delaying crucial early detection.

Because the nasopharynx is situated deep behind the nasal cavity, individuals cannot visually inspect it themselves. Many patients only discover the disease when swollen lymph nodes appear in the neck or when symptoms become persistent, by which time the cancer may have advanced to a later stage.

Doctors at Bach Mai Hospital in Vietnam identify several risk factors contributing to nasopharyngeal cancer. A significant factor is infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which has been strongly linked to the development of this cancer. Other contributing elements include the regular consumption of fermented, long-preserved, or salted foods like pickled vegetables and salted fish, as well as smoked or grilled items. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to environmental pollutants and workplace chemicals also increase risk.

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One of the notable characteristics of nasopharyngeal cancer is that the symptoms often appear on one side, are prolonged, and increase gradually over time.

Associate Professor Dr. Pham Cam Phuong, Director of the Center for Nuclear Medicine and Oncology at Bach Mai Hospital, notes that a key characteristic of nasopharyngeal cancer is that symptoms often manifest on one side of the head, persist, and gradually worsen over time. Warning signs that should prompt a medical visit include persistent, dull headaches localized to one side, nasal congestion on one side that starts intermittently but becomes continuous, possibly accompanied by bloody nasal discharge, and ear issues like ringing, a feeling of fullness, or hearing loss on one side.

Experts stress that if these symptoms are prolonged or recur frequently, individuals should not be complacent. Prompt medical evaluation at a specialized facility is essential. Nasal endoscopy is highlighted as an effective method for early detection, allowing doctors to visualize the nasopharyngeal area directly and identify subtle abnormalities like growths, ulcers, or increased vascularity. Biopsies can be performed for definitive diagnosis. Early detection through regular check-ups and attention to bodily changes can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.

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Nasopharyngeal cancer can be completely detected in the early stages if people pay attention to abnormal changes in their body and seek examination at the right time.