Good health is of utmost importance in enhancing the quality of life. A debilitating condition or potentially life-threatening illness such as cancer can not only affect one’s physical condition, but it also affects them emotionally. Neck cancer is one of the most common cancers in Singapore, and its advanced stage is usually associated with a poor prognosis. In addition, the incidence of this cancer is on the rise, according to Icon Cancer Centre Singapore, with around 800 new cases of neck cancer developing each year in the country. Therefore, if you or your loved one is suffering from neck cancer, it is crucial to understand some strategies on how you can cope with challenging emotional needs in order to navigate this difficult time.
Understanding Head and Neck Cancer
As the name suggests, it is a condition that affects the head and neck regions, including the nose, mouth, throat, salivary glands, and sinuses. Head and neck cancers typically start in the cells that line these structures, and these cells are known as squamous cells. Therefore, cancers that occur in these regions are classified as squamous cell carcinoma.
As mentioned previously, there are many structures that can be affected by head and neck cancer, such as oral, oropharyngeal (middle part of the throat), hypopharyngeal (bottom part of the throat), laryngeal (voice box), and nasopharyngeal cancer (upper part of the throat). In addition, the salivary glands and sinuses (nasal cavity cancer and paranasal sinus cancer) can be affected by this condition as well. This cancer can also spread to the lymph nodes.
Head and neck cancer is more commonly found in women over the age of 50, with a higher risk in individuals who smoke or consume alcohol. People with HPV (human papillomavirus) are also more likely to be at risk of developing head and neck cancers.
While head and neck cancer can present with a range of different symptoms and signs, the most common symptoms seen in these patients are a lingering sore throat, headaches, neck pain, facial numbness, voice changes, and difficulty with speaking. Other symptoms that may appear include pain when chewing or swallowing, a lump in the mouth or throat, nosebleeds, blood in saliva or phlegm, and white or red patches inside the mouth.
Coping with Neck Cancer: How to Overcome Emotional Obstacles
Along with seeking help from a reliable and experienced head and neck specialist in Singapore, there are a number of things that you can do to make your recovery journey as comfortable as possible.
Form a supportive network: Do not be afraid or hesitate to reach out for help. Ask friends and family to provide emotional support as well as to help you with normal activities such as transportation and other chores. Seek emotional support and guidance to help you get through this overwhelming time. Consider speaking with a therapist or support group so that you can share your experiences with patients going through the same situation; this will be crucial in your recovery journey.
Educate yourself: If you or your family member is suffering from neck cancer, make sure to be well informed about the condition from the types, symptoms, risks and complications so that you can be prepared to make decisions in this difficult time.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle: While this is important for any individual, following a healthy diet and lifestyle practices is essential in maintaining health as well as improving your mood and making you calm and relaxed. Staying active will also help you increase your energy levels; this is important as neck cancer treatments may cause you to be exhausted. Furthermore, if you are on chemotherapy, you will need to get advice from your head and neck specialist on how you can create a healthy meal plan to suit your requirements.
Set goals: While it is important to set small and large goals to keep you progressing and to stay motivated, it is essential not to set yourself up for disappointment by having unrealistic targets. Neck cancer can take a toll on you, so it is vital that you celebrate every little progress with practical goal setting.
Maintain oral health: Maintaining your health is essential, especially your oral health, as neck cancer treatments can cause certain oral health issues. Therefore, regular dental care is essential.
Manage stress: Taking care of your emotional health is just as important as your neck cancer therapy. Stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, might be able to help you relax and cope with the emotional toll of neck cancer treatment. It is also important that you stay positive, as it can make a huge difference in your recovery.
Overcome Neck Cancer Treatment Challenges with Head and Neck Cancer Experts in Singapore
Need guidance on which treatment is ideal for neck cancer and how to navigate the emotional challenges associated with neck cancer treatments? Seek help from reliable and well-experienced head and neck specialists in Singapore at Amandela ENT Head & Neck Centre. Their clinic tailors the treatment according to your specific needs and will ensure that you have a comfortable treatment experience as possible. For more information on these treatments, get in touch with their professional and friendly team today.
