Neck lumps, dysfunction of voice, or issues with swallowing may require investigation to exclude serious disease. If you have pain, symptoms, or have an unexplained presentation of neck lumps, your general practitioner may refer you to me. I will perform a thorough examination to evaluate the skin and inner linings of the head and neck.
The appearance of a new lump in the neck or head that lasts more than two weeks should be seen by a General Practitioner as soon as possible. Cancers that begin in the head or neck usually spread to lymph nodes in the neck first and may require investigation just to be sure. Lumps in the head and neck can cause problems such as voice changes, problems swallowing, earaches, or pain. Ideally, children experiencing such symptoms should visit their General Practitioner first. If further investigation or treatment is required you’ll need a referral to see an ENT specialist like me.
Ear, nose, throat, (ENT) and neck cancers usually begin in the squamous cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck. ENT and neck cancers can form in the oral cavity, throat, voice box, salivary glands, and paranasal sinuses or nasal cavity for example. Symptoms include trouble breathing or speaking, pain swallowing, hearing difficulty, ringing in the ears, pain, or swelling. Treating ear, nose, throat and neck cancers can vary but may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and/or surgery. If you are concerned be sure to see your General Practitioner as soon as possible.
Having surgery as a child can be a daunting experience. However, when deciding that surgery is the ideal option, I make sure all my patients are well informed of the clinical benefits of surgery and the pathway to recovery. That way, it helps to settle the nerves and prepare you for the procedure. I perform a range of head and neck procedures to treat malignant and benign tumours of the head and neck, salivary gland disorders, thyroid and parathyroid surgery, snoring and sleep apnoea, grommets, adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy and more.