Could it be throat cancer? Here’s how doctors find out

Noticing persistent throat symptoms can be worrying. While most sore throats are caused by infections or minor irritation, ongoing or unusual symptoms should always be checked by a doctor.

ENT specialists (Ear, Nose, and Throat consultants) are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the throat, voice box, and neck. They can determine whether symptoms are due to a simple cause or something that needs closer attention.

Doctify helps patients connect with verified ENT consultants for timely evaluation and peace of mind.

What is Throat Cancer

Throat cancer (also called laryngeal or pharyngeal cancer) develops when abnormal cells grow in the tissues of the throat, voice box, or tonsils. Although it is less common than other cancers, early detection is crucial, as it greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

This article explains the early signs to watch for, the steps doctors take to make a diagnosis, and what you can expect during your assessment.

Common warning signs to look out for

Many people experience throat irritation from time to time, but certain symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they last more than a few weeks.

Warning signs include:

• A persistent sore throat or hoarseness lasting more than three weeks
• Difficulty swallowing or a constant lump sensation in the throat
• Ear pain on one side without obvious ear infection
• Unexplained weight loss
• A lump or swelling in the neck

Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean cancer, but it does mean you should have a thorough check-up with a doctor.

When to see an ENT specialist

If your throat symptoms persist, become worse, or are accompanied by pain or voice changes, book an appointment with your GP or an ENT specialist.

Early evaluation allows for quicker diagnosis and more effective treatment. Many of these symptoms can also be caused by acid reflux, infections, or benign growths, and an ENT consultant can rule out these conditions with simple tests.

How ENT specialists examine the throat

During your first consultation, your specialist will:

• Review your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol use
• Examine your mouth, throat, and neck for any visible changes or swelling

To see deeper into the throat, your doctor may perform a nasendoscopy. This involves passing a thin, flexible camera through the nose to view the back of the throat and voice box. The procedure takes just a few minutes and is usually painless.

Diagnostic tests used to confirm throat cancer

If your specialist sees anything that requires closer examination, further tests may be arranged. These can include:

• Imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or PET scans to locate and assess any abnormalities
• Biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm whether cancer cells are present
• Laryngoscopy under anaesthetic, which provides a detailed view of the throat and voice box

These procedures are standard, safe, and carried out by experienced surgical teams.

What happens after a diagnosis

If throat cancer is confirmed, your care team will create a treatment plan based on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health.

Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumour
• Radiotherapy or chemotherapy to destroy remaining cancer cells
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy for more advanced cases

Supportive care is also an important part of recovery. Many patients benefit from speech therapy to restore voice function and nutritional guidance to maintain strength during treatment.

Reducing your risk of throat cancer

While not all cases can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can significantly lower your risk:

• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine, which helps prevent virus-related throat cancers

When to reach out for reassurance

If you have had a sore throat, hoarseness, or swallowing difficulty that will not go away, do not delay seeking help. Early consultation does not mean something serious has been found; it simply means you are being proactive about your health.

ENT specialists have advanced diagnostic tools that can quickly identify the cause of symptoms, providing clarity and reassurance.

You can use Doctify to find trusted ENT consultants, read verified patient reviews, and book an appointment at a convenient time.

Conclusion

Persistent throat symptoms should never be ignored, but most are not caused by cancer. Seeing an ENT specialist ensures that any problem is identified early and treated effectively.

If you have been experiencing ongoing throat symptoms, take the next step today. An early check can make all the difference to your peace of mind and long-term health.

Book a consultation with a verified ENT specialist through Doctify for expert, compassionate care.

Find the best ENT specialists in the United Kingdom, or search for trusted experts globally:

• ENT Surgeons in Ireland
• ENT Surgeons in Australia
• ENT Surgeons in the United Arab Emirates
• ENT Surgeons in Germany
• ENT Surgeons in Austria

Medically Reviewed
Last reviewed on 08/15/2025