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Tonsillar Cancer

General Information

Tonsillar cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that affects the area of the mouth that houses your tonsils. Your tonsils play an important role in your body’s lymph system and help your immune system fight infections.

At Goshen Center for Cancer Care, we take an aggressive and comprehensive approach to treating tonsil cancer. Our team of specialists combine their expertise and experience to heal a wide range of cancers and maintain your quality of life. From helping you navigate your treatment options to providing supportive therapy, we take care all of you – not just your cancer.

Tonsillar cancer symptoms

A lump in the neck or tonsil is the main symptom of tonsillar cancer, which can appear as one tonsil being larger than the other. It’s common for some people to have uneven tonsils, so talk to your primary care provider about any changes in your tonsils.

Other signs and symptoms include:

  • A sore on the tonsil that won’t heal
  • Persistent sore throat
  • Bloody saliva
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Difficulty opening the mouth wide
  • Pain or difficulty swallowing or chewing
  • Changes in speaking
  • Ear pain, especially on the affected side

Tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils, strep throat and other infections also cause the symptoms listed above. Get a professional diagnosis to know which condition is causing your symptoms.

Preventing the Causes

Tobacco use accounts for the majority of head and neck cancers. Heavy alcohol use and human papillomavirus (HPV) are other risk factors. Preventing tonsillar cancer begins with limiting your risk factors—such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and reducing your risk for HPV. Smoking cessation experts at Goshen Health can help you quit smoking to lessen your chances of cancer.

Treating Tonsillar Cancer

Tonsil cancer responds well to radiation therapy. Your cancer treatment team may also recommend chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before radiation. Advanced treatment may involve surgery to remove the tonsils and infected lymph nodes. At Goshen Center for Cancer Care, our specialists conduct weekly tumor board meetings to create personalized treatment plans that are unique to each patient.

We don’t just focus on your tonsillar cancer. Trust our specialists to provide the mental and emotional support you need.

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