Headaches, facial pain, and a blocked nose are often overlooked. These symptoms are commonly associated with colds, allergies, and sinusitis. But did you know, these are also the early warning signs of a more serious yet rare health issue, i.e., sinus cancer? If you don’t find relief from the typical sinus treatment in Navi Mumbai, you may want to schedule a visit to an ENT specialist to find out the underlying cause and rule out sinus cancer. We’ve shared some common symptoms of sinus cancer below.
Understanding Sinus Cancer
Sinus cancer can develop in the area behind your nose, also known as your nasal cavity, or in the air-filled spaces surrounding your nose. These are responsible for producing mucus. Changes in the cell structure in your nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses can cause them to grow uncontrollably, leading to sinus cancer. It usually starts in the cheek or between your eyes, but it can occur anywhere in your nasal cavity.
Common Symptoms of Sinus Cancer
These early warning signs of sinus cancer require a visit to the ENT specialist in Navi Mumbai for an accurate diagnosis. The symptoms do not necessarily mean you have cancer, but it’s worth getting checked by a professional if they persist.
Nasal Symptoms: See an ENT specialist if one side of your nose remains blocked for weeks, you notice a bloody discharge from the nose, the mucus keeps draining into the back of your throat, you have a reduced or lost sense of smell, or changes in your voice.
Facial and Eye Symptoms: In the later stages of sinus cancer, you might experience persistent pain and numbness in your face, particularly in the cheek. Visible swelling in the nose or face, pain in one ear, loss of teeth, changes in vision, bulging eyes, and watery eyes are also common symptoms.
Other Symptoms: Additional symptoms might appear if the sinus cancer progresses to an advanced stage. People often experience frequent headaches, particularly behind their eyes and around the temples. Some have frequent sinus infections that do not resolve with antibiotics and other medications.
Who is at an Increased Risk?
Sinus cancer is more common in people over 40, although it can occur in people of any age group. Exposure to certain chemicals and dust can increase your risk. People in the furniture, shoe, textile, and metal plating industries are more vulnerable. Heavy consumption of tobacco or smoking is a major contributing factor to your risk of developing head and neck cancer, including sinus cancer.
When to See the Doctor
If you experience nasal issues, facial pressure, pain in one ear, or tooth loss, it’s worth getting evaluated, especially if the symptoms persist beyond 2-3 weeks. Your symptoms might likely be sinusitis or other benign issues, but taking the recommended tests can help rule out sinus cancer and other chronic health issues. The sooner the sinus cancer is diagnosed, the less the chance it will spread or become life-threatening.
Conclusion
Although rare, sinus cancer can be the underlying cause of your unexplained weight loss, nosebleeds, headaches, and other unusual symptoms. An early diagnosis can be life-saving.
