Nasopharyngeal Cancer Symptoms and Causes: If One-Sided Nasal Congestion Persists

Nasopharyngeal Cancer Symptoms and Causes

If One-Sided Nasal Congestion Persists

The nasopharynx is the area that extends from the base of the brain to the palate, and it is the uppermost part of the pharynx.

In the nasopharynx, there is a structure called the eustachian tube, which connects to the ear. When a malignant tumor develops in this area, it is called nasopharyngeal cancer.

Today, we will look at the symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer and also examine the causes of tumor development.

Cause

Nasopharyngeal tumors are a rare disease, occurring at a rate of about 1 per 100,000 people worldwide. However, in southern China, the incidence is nearly 30 times higher.

It also shows a high incidence in places such as Taiwan, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, where many Chinese people have immigrated, so racial factors are thought to be involved.

In addition, genetic factors, as well as diet and living environment, are also believed to play important roles.

If the nasopharyngeal area becomes infected with a virus, if inflammation develops in the nose, or if there is reduced ventilation and exposure to poor hygiene, the possibility of a malignant tumor developing increases.

It is also known to be related to exposure to nitrosamines contained in salted foods and polycyclic hydrocarbons produced when food is heated.

Histologically, most cases are squamous cell carcinoma, and nasopharyngeal cancer can be diagnosed by identifying the tumor through nasal endoscopy and performing a biopsy.

Symptoms

A representative symptom of nasopharyngeal cancer is a lump-like mass in the neck caused by lymph node metastasis.

In addition, persistent symptoms such as one-sided nasal congestion, ringing in one ear, and a feeling of fullness in the ear may appear, and nosebleeds or blood may be mixed with nasal discharge.

Hearing loss may occur in one ear, and if the tumor grows and blocks the opening of the eustachian tube, pressure decreases and exudative otitis media may develop.

In addition, as the tumor affects the cranial nerves, double vision may occur, and as the trigeminal nerve is compressed, pain may also be felt in the face.

As with other cancers, early detection of the tumor is most important. Therefore, if one-sided nasal congestion and a feeling of fullness in the ear persist, it is a good idea to get examined through fine-needle aspiration and nasal endoscopy.

Because tumors may develop in connection with viruses, poor hygiene, and food, it is important to always maintain clean personal hygiene.

When a tumor develops in the nasopharynx, radiation therapy is performed. However, as a side effect, the mouth may become dry and taste may be lost, so it is important to drink enough water and consume a balanced intake of nutrients.

Also, if the teeth have become weakened and there is inflammation in the mouth or cavities, it is better to receive dental treatment first and then proceed with radiation therapy.

Today, we looked at the symptoms, causes, and precautions of nasopharyngeal cancer. I hope the information provided was helpful.