Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month: Recognising the Signs Early
July is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, with 27 July recognised as World Head and Neck Cancer Day. This annual campaign aims to increase awareness of head and neck cancers and highlights the importance of early detection.
Early diagnosis can make a significant difference to treatment outcomes. That's why recognising potential warning signs and seeking medical advice promptly is so important.
Know the Signs
Head and Neck Cancer Australia recommends seeking medical advice if any of the following symptoms persist for more than three weeks:
- A lump in the neck
- Persistent throat or ear pain
- A sore tongue, mouth ulcer, or red or white patches in the mouth
- A hoarse voice or ongoing voice changes
- Difficulty swallowing
- A blocked nose or persistent bloody nasal discharge
- A bulging or watery eye
While these symptoms are often caused by conditions other than cancer, they should always be assessed by a doctor if they do not resolve within three weeks. Early assessment helps determine the underlying cause and ensures appropriate treatment if needed.
Physiotherapy After Head and Neck Cancer
Treatment for head and neck cancer may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination of these treatments. Recovery can sometimes be accompanied by challenges such as neck stiffness, reduced shoulder movement, muscle weakness, fatigue, pain or difficulty returning to everyday activities.
At Back In Motion Aspendale Gardens, our two certified Cancer Rehabilitation Physiotherapists (Kate and Brendan) provide personalised rehabilitation programs to help people recover safely after cancer treatment. Physiotherapy may assist with improving mobility, rebuilding strength, managing pain, reducing fatigue and supporting a gradual return to daily life and exercise.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Knowing the signs, acting early and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist can make a meaningful difference. During Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the symptoms and encourage family and friends to do the same.
If you are recovering from head and neck cancer treatment and would like support with your rehabilitation, the experienced team at Back In Motion Aspendale Gardens is here to help. Please call 95801985 or book online here.