Things You Need to Know About Salivary Gland Cancer

This is a rare form of cancer, usually occurs in one of the salivary glands in your throat, neck or mouth. High radiation exposure, tobacco usage, eating greater amounts of animal fats, age and family history of salivary gland cancer can put you at an increased risk of salivary gland cancer.

Salivary Gland CancerSalivary gland cancer causes development of lump in your neck, mouth, or jaw, numbness of the face, difficulty in swallowing, weakness of the muscles, continuous pain, and difficulty to open the mouth widely.

Consult your doctor if you notice any of these signs.

Treatment for salivary gland cancer usually needs surgery. If the cancer is within the salivary gland and has small or low grade tumor, then surgery alone can help to remove the cancer.

Physical therapy following the surgery helps to overcome from the complications like chewing, swallowing, and difficulty in breathing.

If the tumor is large and cancer is spread outside the salivary gland, then radiation therapy after the surgery is recommended. Inducing radiations on your head and neck can cause changes in your skin color and texture. Also, it leads to dry mouth, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and sore throat, changes in taste or fatigue.

In order to prevent salivary gland cancer:

  • Limit your exposure to radiations.
  • Stop using tobacco or other cancer causing substances.
  • Check if there are any lumps or bumps in your mouth.
  • Consume diet rich in nutrients and include five servings of fruits and vegetables.
  • Limit the consumption of animal fat.