Early Signs of Nasal Cancer: Cancer cases are constantly increasing, including nasal cancer. Let us explain the symptoms of nasal cancer and how you can prevent it.

Head And Neck Cancer Symptoms: Do you have frequent nose pain? Don't take it lightly. This could also be a sign of nasal cancer, a rare disease, the cases of which have seen an increase in recent years. Both its location and nature are matters of concern, while the fact that this disease is more common in men than in women is also shocking. According to the American Cancer Society, men are almost twice as likely to develop this type of cancer as women. Therefore, it is very important to know what nasal cancer is and what its early symptoms are.

What is nose cancer?

Nasal and sinus cancer occurs when cancer cells form in the nasal cavity or the surrounding paranasal sinuses. It's a rare category of head and neck cancer. Nasal cancer usually begins in the cavity behind the nose, which connects to the throat through the roof of the mouth. The paranasal sinuses are small, air-filled spaces in the facial bones that connect to the nasal cavity.

Risk factors for nasal cancer

People in certain professions have a higher risk of developing this cancer because they breathe in harmful particles for a long time, such as: 

• wood shavings (carpentry)
• textile industry dust
• leather dust
• Flour
• Nickel and chromium dust
• mustard gas
• Radium

Apart from this, smoking, human papillomavirus infection, genetic retinoblastoma, fair complexion, being male, and age above 55 years also increase the risk.

Symptoms of nasal cancer

According to the ACS, symptoms of nose cancer often appear on one side of the face or nose. These include:

• Nasal congestion or persistent stuffiness
• Pain above or below the eyes
• Blockage in one part of the nose
• frequent nosebleeds
• pus-like discharge from the nose
• Numbness in the face or teeth
• Continuous watering of the eyes
• Changes in vision
• Pain or pressure in the ears
• A lump on the face, palate, or inside the nose

How is nasal cancer diagnosed?

Nasal cancer is usually diagnosed based on symptoms. Doctors first perform a physical and medical examination. If cancer is suspected, the patient is referred to an ENT specialist, an otolaryngologist. Tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, and biopsies may be performed to provide a clearer picture of the underlying condition.

Treatment of nasal cancer

Treatment options for nasal cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for nasal cancer across all stages is approximately 61 percent.

Is it possible to prevent nose cancer?

Preventing nose cancer isn't possible in all cases, but the risk can be reduced. This includes completely abstaining from smoking, avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, and taking safety precautions.